99% Invisible The Help-Yourself City
Oct 1, 2019
Gordon Douglas, author of 'The Help Yourself City,' dives into the fascinating world of DIY urbanism. He discusses how ordinary citizens creatively tackle urban challenges without waiting for official approvals. From grassroots efforts like the Hellgate Bridge Initiative to the impact of AI on city planning, Douglas explores the balance between collective community needs and individual motivations. The conversation highlights the importance of accessibility in public spaces and the dynamic relationship between citizens and urban planning.
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Astoria Scum River Bridge
- The Hellgate Bridge in Queens, NY, leaked a slimy substance onto pedestrians below.
- Locals built a small "Astoria Scum River Bridge" over it, prompting Amtrak to fix the leak.
Rise of Urban Planning
- Urban planning became a formalized profession in the 18th and 19th centuries.
- This professionalization made DIY urbanism seem surprising, as city issues became "somebody else's job."
DIY No Parking Sign
- Trucks frequently parked on sidewalks in Brooklyn, damaging them and hindering pedestrians.
- A local store worker created a DIY "no parking" sign, mimicking official signage.
