Masonry Magazine February 2008 Page. 38
CASE STUDIES
Ground Work
WESTFIELD, N.J., REJUVENATES A DOWNTOWN AND BUILDS AN AWARD-WINNING MAIN STREET.
Challenge
Revitalize a downtown by improving its attractiveness and safety to create an environment that is inviting for businesses, residents and visitors to work and play. Westfield, N.J., is a small town in close proximity to metropolitan New York and New Jersey suburbs. In the early-1990s, large shopping malls and multiplexes lured local shoppers away from their home town, resulting in Westfield's downtown experiencing a nearly 40 percent vacancy rate.
Recognizing the need for action, community leaders recommended Westfield re-create itself as a Main Street Community. Per the National Main Street Center of the National Trust for Historical Preservation, Main Street Communities revitalize older and historical commercial districts, increase economic vitality and create a place where people can shop, work or live. The town's goal was to combine the appeal of modern shops, restaurants and businesses without eliminating the charm and character of its 1700s origin.
Action
The first phase of Westfield's restoration called for re-designing streetscapes to bring back the feel of a late-1800s/early-1900s city center. In October 2004, Westfield selected Boral pavers for sidewalks, alleys and general streetscapes. Boral's Bourbon Street Antique pavers were specifically chosen, because their rich deep color and rugged, tumbled texture reinforced the feeling and appeal of Westfield's existing architecture. Since they are made from gen-
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