Earthscrapers

Earthscrapers

Thursday DOL

Earthscrapers

After years of designing tall, modern skyscrapers, some architects are starting to rethink space. They are exploring underground areas for new construction. No, not just parking garages or storage vaults. They imagine using new technology and old disused sites to develop parks below the surface. Some call these projects earthscrapers. One such architect and engineer is James Ramsey. As a city dweller myself, I believe that his innovative ideas make great sense.

    In 2009, Ramsey sat down with strategic planner Dan Barasch to brainstorm. They discussed how to reclaim a huge New York City underground space abandoned for over six decades. They envisioned converting it to a community park. This statement summarizes their visionary project, nicknamed the “Lowline”:

    “We are inspired to use technology to improve the lives of city residents, by creating more of the green space we all need. The Lowline aims to build a new kind of public space—one that highlights the historic elements of a former trolley terminal while introducing cutting-edge solar technology and design”

    What a fantastic and creative vision! But aren’t parks meant to be outside? Ramsey addressed this issue by inventing what he calls “remote skylights.” These use solar technology to capture sunlight energy and send it through fiber-optic cables into the dark space. The filtered light, which could shine all day and night, would enable plants to grow. This earthscraper would feature art and performance spaces, curving walkways, gardens, and activity areas.

    The Lowline has gained support from community leaders, businesses, and residents who favor this unique approach to enhance their crowded city. I strongly support this project and plan to work to make it become a reality. With luck, the Lowline could welcome its first visitors by 2018.

Multiple Choice

1. Which is not true about the Lowline?

• A. It would be located below the city streets.

• B. It would provide a recreation space for groups of people.

• C. It would be located within an old, abandoned structure.

• D. It would be dark and cold inside.

Multiple Choice

2. Which of the following makes the Lowline such a unique public project?

• A. It is planned for an urban area.

• B. It is planned to be built underground.

• C. It will have trees, plants, gardens, and art.

• D. It will allow people to gather and relax.

Open Ended

3. Think about the title of this article. Explain its meaning.

Multiple Choice

4. Look back at your text Which is a summary of the author’s point of view about building parks like the Lowline.

• A. The author favors this project, but does not think others will like to be built in our crowded cities.

• B. The author favors this project, but does not understands its value.

• C. The author does not favors this project, is not impressed by its creativity and imagination,

• D. The author favors this project, is impressed by its creativity and imagination, understands its value, and hopes that it and others like it will be built in our crowded cities.