This last Sunday, Group 5 -- Lauren Walker, Britany Maher, Brittney Casad, Chelsea Marshall, & Jane Mathisen --ventured to Sugarhouse Park.
The park seemed to cater to three demographics: dog walkers, people seeking exercise, and those with children.
Four legged friends were well accomodated at the park. At the entrance of the park, a sign welcomed dog lovers and laid out rules so that man and canines could coexist. Streams, walkways, and large fields provided ample opportunity for dog entertainment. We observed dog owners of every variety toting dogs of every breed. Despite the fact that there were multiple opportunities for conflict, people kept their pets in line.
The long, circular paved path played host to an assortment of athletes. The pathway was divided into three sections: one for bikers, one for pedestrians, and one for automobiles. This division managed to keep safe bikers, drivers, walkers, and the occasional cross country skier!
Centered in the park was a large pond which attracted children from across the valley to feed the water fowl. There was also a very popular playground where children congregated. Relaxed parents watched them from the nearby benches. Other children took advantage of the hills and fields to play makeshift games.
People throughout the park were extremely friendly. An elderly couple gave us a loaf of bread to feed the ducks. Several people talked to us without being prompted. The environment in the park was welcoming and at no point did we ever feel unsafe.
Public transportation to the park on Sundays is limited and we waited nearly an hour for the 220 bus to take us back to campus.
Overall, Sugarhouse Park is an fantastic asset to residents of Salt Lake City. We enjoyed spending a beautiful afternoon feeding the ducks and geese, and being a part of the lively atmosphere surrounding the park.
You raised some interesting issues worth further comment. Although the park at first glance seems like a sort of passive, landscaped space that builds on its natural appearance or nature, there always are, at public parks, layers of messages or realities at work as well. For instance, here, as you suggest the park is working to accommodate certain populations--dog owners, parents with children and so forth. Does it do this at the expense of others? What if you don't like dogs running around, how does it accommodate the non-dog lover? Besides signs, how does it accommodate our needs? How does space play in this? Are certain spaces clearly demarcated for children vs. grown-ups and so forth? Space is never neutral and always has embedded in it social or cultural messages, that in this instance (public spaces) are public in nature and reflect majority viewpoints that city or county officials enforce.
ReplyDeleteHow do the spaces of the park regulate the behavior of visitors? Why wouldn't you for example, drive a motorcycle on the lawn or skateboard in the wrong places etc. How does space regulate the way the public interacts with each other and the public space of the park?
What makes the park feel safe or secure? Interesting or relaxing?
Good job!