Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Events

Panel: Jane Jacobs and the Future of New York: Is New York Losing Its Soul?

JJ_web_logo.jpg

Today's New York City is safer and more economically robust than anyone could have imagined in the gritty 1970s, or even the early 1990s. But there is more to city life than economic success. As blocks and neighborhoods begin to respond to success, some have lost elements of the character that made them distinctive. National chain stores, bank branches, drugstores and cellphone outlets abound, seemingly beyond all measure, and housing costs have soared beyond the reach of the middle classes, never mind the bohemians.

Where does the life of the city come from? Is New York on the verge of losing its creative edge? What can be done to ensure the city’s ongoing vitality? Join a celebrated panel for a provocative discussion on whether the texture of the city—the tangible and intangible components that create its soul — is eroding or evolving.

    • Clyde Haberman, The New York Times — moderator
    • Rocco Landesman, Jujamcyn Theaters
    • Alison Tocci, Time Out New York
    • Darren Walker, Rockefeller Foundation

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

‘How Do You Do That to People?’ Crash Victims Speak Out Against Hochul’s Car Insurance Agenda

"Her supposition that, 'There’s a lot of fraud and people are faking these injuries in order to get million-dollar payouts' is preposterous," said one crash victim.

March 19, 2026

Nassau County Police Are Enforcing an E-Bike Ban That Doesn’t Actually Exist

With no clear legal rationale for the ban, Nassau County e-bike riders are left in a tough spot.

March 19, 2026

Thursday’s Headlines: Backed into a Corner Edition

Another day, another demand for auto insurance reform from Gov. Hochul. Plus other news.

EXCLUSIVE: Mamdani Halts NYPD’s Criminal Crackdown on Cyclists, Ending Harsher Treatment of Bicyclists Than Car Drivers

Cops will no longer write criminal summonses to cyclists for minor traffic offenses starting on Friday, March 27, City Hall said.

March 18, 2026

Council Leaders Push DOT In Both Directions On Streets Master Plan Goals

Transportation Chair Shaun Abreu is passionate about bus lanes and bike lanes. Finance Chair Linda Lee? Not so much.

March 18, 2026

Albany Pols Seek Transparency From Insurance Giants As Hochul Pushes Premium Cuts

Assembly Member Jeffrey Dinowitz and state Sen. Jamaal Bailey have stepped up their oversight of — and concern about — Gov. Hochul's auto insurance scheme.

See all posts