Table of Contents
Developing connections between recreational, historic, and commercial activities via the investments in pathways, landscaping, lighting, and signage, should enhance and enrich the livability of the Barton Village. By livability it is meant that both the village's long term economic viability and the human interaction with the place one lives would be stimulated and renewed.
The Visual Analysis strategy was based on developing connectivity between differing types of activities, on seeing the existing conditions as amenities which with a little work or investment would show a greater benefit to the overall health of the community, on recognizing the potential in special places such as the Brick Kingdom, and in trying to keep the scale of the projects do-able. Recommendations that speak to pride, volunteerism, and local community reinvestment of time and money are sometimes deceptively simple. Glitzy, showy projects which look like quick-fixes may be easier to market, but the impact of the smaller, more subtle projects is longer ranging, fits within the existing infrastructure of buildings and road network more easily and tends to complement the existing nature of the village. The Gateways speak to Barton's wish to strengthen their identity and pride, the Village Green redesign is about creating a colorful focal point at the center of the village, and the redevelopment of the lake outlet and Brick Kingdom are about providing additional activities (recreational, cultural, business) for the town's people and visitors alike.
We recognize that creating these various investments will take time and commitment. Whatever activities Barton Village chooses to take on, these or others,-- there will be many benefits, from enhancing the safety and health of local citizens to strengthening existing businesses and perhaps even the mushrooming of new ones. Local investment is always key to building strength and stability. The connection between a healthy, handsome environment and a livable, economically viable community is proven over and over again. We hope this Visual Analysis contributes to that process.
Comments to: crs@uvm.edu Reviewed on 3/28/97