Lynne B. Sagalyn, an author and urban change expert, delves into the captivating history of Times Square in her latest work. She discusses the area’s evolution from a vibrant theater hub to a notorious vice center, and the aggressive government strategies that transformed it from crime-ridden to a family-friendly destination. Sagalyn also highlights the interplay between theater, real estate, and commercial signage, emphasizing how collective memory shapes urban identity. Her insights reveal the complexities of revitalizing such an iconic space.
