Rik Adamski

    

 
 Do It Yourself Urbanism

     



      On May 18, 2013 Rik Adamski gave a presentation concerning Tactical Urbanism.  Rik is a Senior Planner at Bowman-Melton Associates, Inc..  Rik explained his ideas for new urbanism and sustainable development specifically within the Dallas/Fort Worth area.  He cited several examples from groups throughout the country that implemented some of their ideas to influence their local neighborhood.

     Rik defined do it yourself (DIY) urbanism by the following five criteria:  

          1.  A deliberate, phased approach to instigating change. 
          2.  The offering of local  solutions for local planning 
               challenges. 
          3.  Citizen generated alterations of the built environment. 
          4.  The traditional method to build communities, building by 
               building, block by block. 
          5.  A way for ordinary citizens to help revitalize their own 
               communities.

     The DIY approach encourages individuals to get involved from the community organizers to the city council's etc.  The idea being, individuals can make a difference only if they get involved.  In my opinion, his ideas are to inspire individuals to change their government's way of doing business.  Let the individuals who live in the area of proposed changes provide the ideas for change, not having the government shove their changes down the people's throat.


     An example he cited was the use of a parking day.  This is where an individual or group occupy a parking spot and do some activity other than using the spot to park cars.  This action inspires people to walk and use less vehicles becoming more tied to their community.


     Other ideas he suggested were ("team better block", "race street", and "open streets") type of projects.  These ideas were enacted by individuals, not the government, and they improved their local areas.  

       With the economy being what it currently is, cities shouldn't expect much from the government because there simply isn't money available.  I think some of these ideas will help the local neighborhoods improve in the absence of government.  

     Working together with the community will strengthen ties of all occupants.  Events such as these provide a platform for people to get out of their homes and meet their neighbors etc. which further strengthens the local community.


Link to Rik Adamski's YouTube post:

http://www.youtube.com/user/RikAdamski