Sherlock Says: "Watson, Look What I Found In Vancouver, BC"
When I hear the name, Vancouver, I naturally think about good tower spacing, but look what I found; downtown schools and parks as well.
Residential towers and school playgrounds in False Creek area of Vancouver.
What I didn't know about are the wide functional two ways alleys of downtown Vancouver.
A typical 33' wide alley in the Coal Harbour area, west of Thurlow St.
I was also very impressed by the wide sidewalks as well, which make for attractive public space and resident interaction.
Ground floor retail in a 30+ floor tower.
You also have to be impressed with Vancouver's transit system, highlighted by the famous driverless SkyTrain as well as the more traditional Canada Line, and bikes and buses, too.
SkyTrain entering downtown Vancouver.
So, my dear Watson, it's elementary!
When you put together adequate tower spacing, wide sidewalks, wide functional alleys, downtown parks and schools, and great transit, you end up with a great city. And that's what I found in Vancouver.
Maybe we need to talk to our Seattle Mayor, City Council, and Planning officials about making a trip to Vancouver...a city where they really "get it" regarding urban living.