Networks of Democracy

This proposal is a superblock developed around the ideas of democracy and connections between the systems, focusing on the interconnectivity of residents to public spaces in their communities. In response to the analysis of the neighborhoods around Burbank Airport, I have identified three areas of weakness where Burbank struggles with incorporating characteristics of a resilient city: low density, the lack of diversity, and the lack of green space to sufficiently accommodate residents. Through these three themes, the superblock is developed to emphasize democracy and creating spaces that are accessible to everyone. Underlying this project is a set of networks that were created between the civic centers and the green spaces in Burbank and the superblock. In creating the superblock, three different forms are taken from the modular square grid that relates to their specific programs of mixed residential housing, community and civic centers, and public spaces. This system of grids serves to push forth the idea that every space is transparent and accessible by anyone, regardless of factors such as socioeconomic class, race, or occupation. Amongst the blocks within the project, the spaces and residents are connected by the physical embodiment of the underlying network systems between the programs and the internal gathering spaces. These connections manifest into the interwoven pedestrian and bicycle circulation which contrasts with the straight paths of the vehicular circulation.

The superblock serves to provide equitable access to information and an equitable amount of available resources to its residents to ensure that there is a strong social fabric in the community. This stable and interconnected social connection is crucial in creating a secure political, economic, and environmental relationship that would make the superblock resilient against any system and external failures.