I met Elgin Public Works Director John Loete at the downtown streetscape meeting Tuesday night, and was pleased to learn that he shared my views about the Low Line (pictures here and here), how it could be a huge asset for downtown Elgin, etc. One of the guys at DLK Civic Design was likewise very enthusiastic about the idea of creating this park-like space that runs through the city center. Both said, however, that when the idea was brought up in previous meetings, there was some grumbling among property owners who have purchased portions of the Low Line from the railroad company and use it for parking, etc. In order for the Low Line to work out, their needs will have to be taken into account. I think that because it will have a large impact on their property values (see High Line), they can be made to see the light of day. Drawings and renderings will help.

I brought up the issue of angled parking in the downtown and it doesn’t sound like it’s really been considered. Just some vague objections about not having enough space, which isn’t true. You can narrow the sidewalk and thereby increase street parking by 50%. That would help to allay the concerns of people who will lose their parking spaces if the Low Line is developed. But more importantly, it would make it easier for people to park for two reasons: 1) people in the suburbs are not accustomed to parallel parking and avoid it; now they can park head first 2) there will be 50% more parking spaces. Pedestrians also benefit because the buffer between street and sidewalk increases by 100%. Also, angled parking has a calming effect on traffic, slowing it down and making it safer.
It also occurred to me while sitting there in the Heritage Ballroom at the Centre, that the Water Street Place condo because of its large size, will–if built–cast a shadow over the library. I’d be surprised if the GBL doesn’t object to losing their southern exposure.

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