The Measure of Manhattan

You might be familiar with the names Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux -- they're the creators of Central Park. But, have you ever heard of John Randel Jr.? This often unrecognized 19th century genius also played an instrumental role in the development of the New York City we know and love today. Learn all about the guy who plotted Manhattan's famous street grid on this week's Cityscape. We'll also talk with a modern-day surveyor in New York City.

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Soundscapes NYC Ryan Purcell The Seventies was a calamitous decade, a low point in the history of New York City. City Hall continually failed to balance budgets and turned to austerity, privatization, and sheer negligence when it came to running city services. Roads disintegrated, buildings and overpasses collapsed, garbage piled high, and crime ran rampant. The city literally crumbled under the weight of austerity. At the same time, underground culture surged with energy, from subway graffiti to experimental theater and gay bars. Musical artists embedded in the urban fabric turned to their craft with gusto. They formed loose networks of like-minded artists who made and appreciated particular styles of music. Their world during this period, at times, reflected the disintegrating cityscape. At other times, their music celebrated the social constraints let loose in a time of crisis, when the city seemed to be falling apart. Soundscapes is a podcast about how music created in New York Shamisen Lofi Hip Hop 🌆🎤 Autumn Rain on Bamboo Asian Serenity 🎋 Drift away as ancient silk strings meet modern beats, where feudal Japan whispers through the rain of today's cityscape 🌧️ The Art Cityscape Springville City Why does Springville, Utah have an art museum? Why doesn't it have your favorite restaurant? What will the city look like in 2050? How can you get a recycling can?The Art Cityscape will give you a fast-paced and unique look at Utah's Art City. We'll answer your questions and tell you what's happening in the city and why. Local Artist: Graham Watts Original Art Vancouver To Whistler Canadian Artist Graham Watts "Pedestrian Puddles – Vancouver, BC," measuring 30 x 40 inches. The scene depicts a rainy day in Vancouver with people holding umbrellas, a vivid depiction of the cityscape with reflections on wet streets, and a prominently featured Hudson's Bay store. This artwork captures a dynamic urban atmosphere with a focus on vibrant colors and active street life. If you need details or descriptions for specific elements or have other questions about this painting, feel free to ask! Learn more: GrahamWatts.art

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This episode is 30 minutes long.

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This episode was published on February 16, 2013.

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