We can make better use of fine buildings

7:51 PM Tuesday, June 21, 2011

My wife and I have traveled three times to five countries in Europe, including Eastern Europe. On those travels, we witnessed many buildings that are more than 100 years old and are still being used.

One city we visited in Eastern Europe was built in the 1300s, making those buildings more than 700 years old. And they are still being used for living, for offices and even restaurants.

On the first trip, we rented an apartment which was very old, yet comfortable. One of the things that we appreciated in Europe is the architecture of many of their buildings.

It is disturbing to us that Springfield has many downtown buildings either standing empty or partially empty, and yet we tear down buildings in order to build new ones.

I am a part of a business downtown with offices in the Arcue Building. I can look out our windows and see several buildings that could be used for office space besides the one we’re using.

The city is trying to revitalize the downtown, which is good. But why can’t more businesses utilize existing downtown space?

There are several buildings in the downtown area that have beautiful architecture, but they stand empty. Yes, it takes money to refurbish an old building, but for us, it is worth the price.

We also notice that we keep building strip malls and there are empty spaces in many of those shopping centers. But we keep building new ones. Why not utilize existing buildings?

We think new is better, but that is not always true. On South Fountain, many houses are being refurbished and they are simply gorgeous. We like driving down South Fountain and seeing the progress being made. We commend those who are responsible for rehabbing those houses.

Elton L. and Kathleen F. Moose

Springfield

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