Robert Moses and the Zoning of New York (Part I): Killing the Master Plan
Jason M. Barr February 28, 2023
Robert Moses, known as the Master Builder of New York, built the city’s highways, bridges, parks, and public housing projects. Yet, for 25 years, Moses also impacted New York’s zoning and urban planning policies, though his actions remained and remain in the shadows. This post—the first in a series—brings to light the forgotten history of Robert Moses’ role in New York City zoning and urban planning. Read More »
Robert Moses and the Zoning of New York (Part II): 1944
Jason M. Barr July 24, 2023
Robert Moses, known as the Master Builder of New York, built highways, bridges, parks, and public housing projects. Yet, for 25 years, Moses also impacted New York’s zoning and urban planning policies, though his actions remained and remain in the shadows. This post—the second in a series—brings to light Moses’ failed attempt to rezone Gotham in 1944. Read More »
Saint Jane and the Moses Myth: Revisiting the Robert Moses-Jane Jacobs Debate
Jason M. Barr April 18, 2022
In the 1960s, urbanist Jane Jacobs led the charge to stop “Master Builder” Robert Moses from building a highway through Greenwich Village. The fight between Jacobs and Moses has created a residual mythology about good triumphing over evil. These myths are preventing us from solving the looming problems of housing affordability and climate change in the 21st century. It’s time to move. Read More »