Grid Patterns and Urban Evolution

This chapter explores the Spanish conquistadors' grid layout in town planning as established by the Law of the Indies, contrasting it with the organic street design that evolved in New York City. The discussion highlights the historical transformation of Manhattan through the 1811 commissioner's plan, which reshaped its wild landscape into a structured grid despite financial pressures post-Revolution. Personal anecdotes enrich the narrative, illustrating the impact of this layout on modern navigation and understanding of urban development.