Pharrell Williams is using his star power and influence [and money] to link with Miami architect Chad Oppenheim to possibly pursue a concept that would turn part of Overtown into Ice Cream City.
So, what’s Ice Cream City? Well, it’s the country’s biggest skatepark, a small business incubator, a light industrial zone of specialty workshops and ateliers, (ateliers in Overtown, oh my!) plenty of new residential, “unconventional” big box retail (There’s a Target!) and lots and lots of infill development. It will build around and adapt existing structures (even the crummy ones) and be extremely pedestrian oriented. It’s also totally “bottom up,” as opposed to the top-down dictatorial mentality of typical master plans. Ice Cream City is all about incubation rather than dictation, baby, and a wild amalgamation of a million bold ideas for the revitalization of a part of town more known for its urban blight and long-lost history than its cool architecture or bright future. Details, as far as who the developers are, when it will happen, and how it will be paid for, as well as hopefully some more detailed plans, are forthcoming. Apparently there are multiple parties involved.
Again, seems interesting and there are plenty of great ideas for this proposed Ice Cream City. But I think as long as residents the surrounding areas aren’t affected and none of the historic buildings and structures are affected, then why not? Check out all the photos in the gallery above, and look for more details to come out real soon.
Source: Curbed Miami
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SirCoach
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leon
