You're absolutely correct, because of course they can - I'm not suggesting they can't. The Vancouver model has demonstrated that skyscrapers can contribute to pedestrianism. And because of that Vancouver has one of the best and most liveable downtowns in NA.
What I am suggesting, and what I've said a number of times, is that there's only so much demand for new downtown developments within Regina. This is not Vancouver where demand is so strong that they have had to look at ways to
limit residential as it is taking precedence over employment lands, such as office.
The two pictures I show are there to express the difference in development. I would prefer the medium density built continuously along the street as this would have a greater influence on more of the downtown. On the contrary, the influence of a higher density development is limited in how far it's impact will reach. This is what I am emphasizing. We are trying to build a great downtown - and thus we need to direct investments strategically across the downtown. Not focus all development within two blocks. Unlike Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal where the demand for development in inner-city locations seems infinite, we are limited in the amount.
This is planning theory, based off the research of professional planners and academics who have committed their lives to the discipline. I am not just making these thoughts up - I've studied Planning at the university level, so I like to think I have a grasp on the field. Furthermore, these thoughts are clearly relevant as these very principles are visible in Regina's downtown plan.
I am not arguing that the City of Regina go in and tell Harvard to lower the density. Obviously that's not realistic. What I'm discussing here is that there seems to be a thought that taller = better. My interest, as I'm sure many of yours are, is to see a vibrant, attractive downtown. Will this type of development help? Of course, but the impact of a new 20 or 30 storey tower could be more effective to the area if done differently.
Anyways - just providing discussion to the topic. It's not a forum rule that you have to listen to me!
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