Robert Moses was a renowned urban planner who played a significant role in shaping the streets and roads of New York City. His impact on the city was so profound that it influenced the development of urban infrastructure in many other major U.S. cities. Moses was a controversial figure among urban planners due to his unique choices and priorities in city planning.
Robert Moses was born on December 18, 1888, in New Haven, Connecticut, into a family of wealth. His father, Emanuel Moses, was a successful department store owner, and his mother, Bella, provided him with a comfortable upbringing. It was evident from a young age that Moses was destined for great things.
Moses made a name for himself as an engineer, known for his innovative approach to city planning. He transformed New York City by creating thousands of acres of parkland and building over 600 playgrounds, providing recreational spaces for the city's residents. However, Moses's legacy is also marked by controversial decisions, such as prioritizing highways over public transportation routes.
One of Moses's most significant projects was the development of the Triborough Bridge, now known as the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, which connected Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. This bridge transformed transportation in New York City and solidified Moses's reputation as a master planner.
Despite his contributions to the city's infrastructure, Moses's reputation took a hit with the publication of his biography, "The Power Broker," by Robert Caro. The book shed light on Moses's authoritarian style of governance and his tendency to prioritize the needs of the automobile over public transportation. This revelation led to a reevaluation of Moses's legacy and role in shaping urban landscapes.
Robert Moses's impact on New York City is undeniable, as his decisions continue to influence the city's layout and development to this day. While he may have been a controversial figure, there is no denying that Moses left a lasting legacy on urban planning in America.
Robert Moses's legacy as an urban planner is complicated, with both praise and criticism surrounding his work. His influence on New York City and beyond cannot be denied, as his decisions continue to shape urban landscapes across the country.