curbside city

Burnham 2020 Prize Submission
Summer 2020

The 2020 Burnham Prize prompted entrants to rethink the 1909 Plan of Chicago by Daniel Burnham.  Curbside City expands on the boulevard system established in the plan.  As society shifts to using autonomous vehicles, requiring less parking and space, Chicagoans can reclaim their streets.  Based on the idea of the $1 lots program, residents can buy parking spots on their streets to convert to a public-facing use - art, gardens, small retail, seating... the possibilities are limitless.  Over the years, Chicago’s streets will be almost entirely dedicated to pedestrians, reflecting the desires and aspirations of those who live there.