From the Sketchbook (again):
Scranton Island and Collision Bend are interesting areas. The site of Collision Bend was actually one of the sites that is being studied for a possible casino location. I believe its proximity to the Prog (Jake) and the Q or Gund Arena or whatever it is called (where LeBron plays) are actually quite strong points as well as the proximity to Tower City, the Red Line and freeway access. The site along Huron Road also would have slight pedestrian urban impact, the river side doesn't currently have a sidewalk to impact. Connections across Huron and Ontario may be difficult as well.
In the back of my mind is this fascination I have with open container law stemming from my travels to London. I love the easy going gait afforded my meanderings as I strolled from one club/bar to another. I couldn't enter a bus or train with my beverage but as it was a temperate night out and there was no schedule to follow we weren't in any specific rush. Granted my first thought was "Holy -expletive- I cannot believe I can walk around a city and enjoy my beverage as if I were an adult who could make (and be held responsible for) my own decisions. How very grown up I could be! Therefore, if a casino is an adult only establishment due to age restrictions, perhaps moving the casino to Scranton Island and converting the entire island (really a peninsula) into an "adult designated area" complete with auto restrictions, open container, public transit connections, various bars, clubs, casinos, etc. would allow a centralized concentration on controlled debauchery. If I could walk from one music venue to the next along a boardwalk with my beverage, strolling, enjoying the company of those around me, I would find that time rather sensational. Granted there would be the few that would be disruptive however by centralizing the problem I would hope that it would be easier to police/control.
The sketch was sort of an exploration into that series of thoughts, perhaps making the East side of the Cuyahoga more family friendly, easily accessible to Tower City and various sporting events with restaurants and retail, however the West Bank, accessible from Huron Road by a bridge over OR a tunnel under Collision Bend (even the name sounds dastardly!) would be where the post 21 years of age fun could occur.
I honestly think it could still be classy too. I'm a dreamer, you see.
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