Over a year ago, Sean Kirst wrote a blog entitled “The Ronald McDonald House: Defining Civic Progress.” It is worth reading again, so we might remember what the experts have said about the value – or lack thereof – of demolishing our built history.
Syracuse has made that mistake repeatedly and is, in fact, done with that mindset. Yet, incredibly, we still have an historic building being threatened with demolition.
The board of the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) has misled Syracusans in defining the problem as either-or: either you take care of sick kids OR you save an historic building. This is simply false, as has been pointed out by numerous professionals who have weighed in on this issue. In fact, the building RMH is proposing is not in keeping with the style on Genesee Street. More importantly, however, it has a post-modern institutional feel to it reminiscent more of a Microtel next to an interstate than of a comforting place for families dealing with the trauma of serious illness.
Look at the following two designs. Then tell the Planning Commission that you want sick kids and their families in a home, not in an institution. Tell them you want this important building to be maintained and expanded to meet the needs of these families.
We’ve made it easy for you: CLICK ON THIS LINK to send an email to the Planning Commission.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS MONDAY, AUGUST 11, 2008.
The design we want to see:
This is the version proposed by the Ronald McDonald House board:
Both proposed buildings can house families in need. Which one do you want in your city?
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