Editor
A decade or more ago, if I had learned of an idea to construct soaring towers at the intersection of Ind. 32 and U.S. 31, my reaction would have been entirely negative. I would have seen this move as idiotic and irresponsible. Exhibiting that same facts-and-figures mentality that we engineers are so often stereotyped with, I would have argued that such expensive artwork has no place on the list of public projects; that there is no practical purpose.
But I would have been wrong.
My opinion on such matters has changed completely, and it has changed due to several key experiences. In my career, I have been blessed with the opportunity to work on some large, high-profile projects. Though my involvement starts once the design is underway, the goals and purpose behind each project extend into coordination and planning meetings.
I learned while working on plans for Lucas Oil Stadium that the project was not about the game of football so much as the business of football. And while the spectators in the seats are valued, far greater emphasis is on the broadcast. The cost of a new stadium was not justified on the merits of ticket sales and vending. There was a much greater goal – one that is incredibly complex to quantify. I wasn’t helping to design a building for the Colts. I was helping to design a building that contributes greatly to the persona of Indianapolis. If graded purely on the merits of function, the stadium would not have an operable roof, expanses of moving glass or the distinctive ‘fieldhouse’ architecture.
Like it (as I do) or not (which I’ve heard plenty) the Palladium in nearby Carmel is another example. Great attention was given to ensure that the hall would be a fantastic venue. And it could sound just the same if the exterior was clad in corrugated steel barn siding. But without the appeal, who would go?
Advanced bookings show already that Grand Park will be a tremendous draw, bringing visitors and subsequent businesses to Westfield. But do you suppose our city will be recognizable in the snapshots of athletes on the field? I’m not expecting the turf to look any different than other well-planned and maintained facilities around the country.
On the other hand, do you recognize St. Louis by the arch? Or Paris by the Eiffel Tower? Really, what purpose do either of those serve? They create an identity. And anyone growing a business will tell you that you can’t put a price on identity. You know what’s under the golden arches long before you’re close enough to read the sign.
To be perfectly honest, I’m still not certain that the current design is exactly what I would choose. There’s plenty of room for personal opinion. But it’s undisputable that the proposed towers will be iconic. It’s easy to imagine postcards depicting the Westfield Towers glowing against the night sky. And I have no doubt that people will stop to take photos. Likenesses of those towers will be on T-shirts and placemats at restaurants who haven’t even found us yet, but will.
For those who suggest that we would be better served by a local tax break instead of funding the towers, I respect your opinion. We’re thinking along the same direction. Except I’ve learned to project forward, and apply the math long-term. Take the cost of the towers and distribute that money among everyone in Westfield – how much do we get? And then it’s gone. But invest in a bold and recognizable gateway symbol, and reap the rewards of growth for many years to come.
I applaud the leadership and planning efforts that are taking place. I won’t agree with every move, but I like the direction overall. So long as the priorities continue to be carefully monitored and balanced, let’s see if we can get those towers built!
Andre Maue, 46074