to gamble or not...?

There is much debate in Bermuda regarding the arrival of casino gambling. Lest we spend too much time arguing the point, please understand: Bermudians gamble already. The question is: how should we deal with casino gambling? 

where will we see the first casino? image: bermuda aerial media

For those who do wish to argue, you must know we can access betting on horses, greyhounds and sports competitions; play bingo and buy raffle tickets; and, for two days a year, (legally) play crown and anchor. Let's assume that for the other 363 days a year, the card games are behind closed doors. But this is really about visitors.

As we consider the possibilities, we should pay attention to Atlantic City, New Jersey. The comparisons aren't direct but, as a gambling destination since 1978 now battling fierce competition in what many term a 'mature market', it seems sensible to review its situation.

Lisa Selin Davis, writing for Planning, the magazine of the American Planning Association, has done just that. In an article entitled Plan B for Atlantic City, she examines the steps Atlantic City is taking to re-invent itself. Efforts to make casinos part of the urban fabric are striking as they speak to the need, in Bermuda, to help visitors have a 'whole island experience'. The Bermuda National Tourism Master Plan provides a framework for us to make that happen. 

hamilton's waterfront: just a thought

Now that the design concept for the Hamilton waterfront is available for the public to review, comment on, get excited about, etc., etc., it's hard to resist adding to the general cacophony.

Just a thought, though, at this point. The re-development of the waterfront is important, and not just because construction jobs will be created for several years to come. Done right, the project can serve as a catalyst for investment in the island and as a vibrant focal point for the arts, events, recreation, business and much more. The key words? Done right.

image: tamara leighFor now, however, I will occasionally highlight projects, ideas and design concepts I think might be applicable here in Bermuda. The first such one is in Lancaster, California, and it, in turn, was lifted from Barcelona, Spain! It is a "ramblas" like boulevard in downtown Lancaster. The online magazine Better Cities & Towns outlines in a brief post, Spanish ramblas energizes California suburb, by Robert Steuteville, the regenerative impact the boulevard has had on the downtown. It has driven investment and brings crowds to the area.

As I said, just a thought...