Reconstructing Times Square: Politics and Culture in Urban Development (Studies in Government & Public Policy)
Using New York City's Times Square in the late 1990s, Reichl (political science, Loyola Univ.) provides insight into the economic, political, and social forces involved in city planning. He finds that Time Square's "reconstruction" has resulted from a collaborative effort of business, government, and community spawned by municipal actions dating back to 1967, during the era of John Lindsay. However, it was not until the administration of Mayor Ed Koch, when political allies and foes joined forces (citing historical preservation and the attraction of the area's being part of the theater district) that the movement to return Times Square to its great past while giving it a clean, modern infrastructure gained strength. This urban revitalization was unique in that corporate sponsors were able to convince the populace that restoring the grandeur of the good old days was the best urban renewal of all. Reichl presents many sociologists' viewpoints in a way that is readable and cogent. Highly recommended for public and academic libraries.AKevin Whalen, Somerset Cty. Lib., Bridgewater, NJCopyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.