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

DOT Proposing A 14th Street-Style Busway For 34th Street

It's the sequel you've been waiting for. Here's hoping Mayor Adams delivers, said one activist.

May 19, 2025

Sohn in Albany: State Bill to Force Drivers to Pass Safely Stalls

Apparently, New York City is just too unsafe for legislation forbidding drivers to pass cyclists too closely.

May 19, 2025

Car Harms Monday: Machines Took Over Cities and Left Humans in the Dust

There isn't enough physical space for every single household to store its fleet of personal vehicles in front of the home, nor is there space for everyone to drive at the same time. So let's fix that.

May 19, 2025

A Valuable History Lesson for Jessica Tisch: ‘The Rules of the Road’ Were Written for Cars

Hey, Commissioner, listen to this historian: When rules recognize reality, suiting the distinct needs of categorically different users, everybody wins.

May 19, 2025

Monday’s Headlines: ‘Hey, Sean, We’re Walking Here’ Edition

The federal Transportation secretary once again shows how little he knows about urban transportation. Plus other news.

May 19, 2025
See all posts