The above visual is a map of the downtown Hartford area where iQuilt executes most of their plans. As you can see, there are many important historical and political sites such as the local ancient burial grounds, Senator Blumenthal’s office, and the state capital to the left out of picture. The iQuilt building is surrounded by important municipal buildings, as well as a multitude of local businesses, and a generous amount of parking locations, aside from that which is available on the roadside paid by meters.
This area of Hartford in particular is quite significant, and the image it portrays is even more consequential to the public. Given the political presence in this area, as well as the political and economic weight of the many local businesses, the appearance of this area is critical. One of iQuilt’s major focuses is complete streets made especially pedestrian friendly. Less driving and parking space, and more living and walking space; because cities are made for people after all. But, “the problem is to coordinate on the basis of more essential human values than the will-to-power and the will-to-profits”(Mumford). As the case with some of the iQuilt efforts, it is hard to avoid the nature of business and politics: profits and gains. As a result of decreased parking, and just more inconveniences for vehicles, local businesses raised the question whether or not walkable streets would hurt the local economy. The theory was business would struggle as people simply rely on their cars as a primary mode of transport; walking is just less desirable, especially in the summer months. Whether the theory rings true has yet to be seen, and only time will tell as Hartford expands their walkable streets initiatives.
