Regarding your article "City Is restoring Downtown's Hidden Park": I was amused by the emphasis on how "important" Manhattan Square Park is as an iconic piece of work by Lawrence Halprin. The design is, and always has been, a complete failure. So, how important can it be?

There are lots of examples of iconic architecture that are complete failures. These buildings and landscapes fail because, instead of being woven into their surroundings, they stand out like a sore thumb. Instead of complementing local architecture, they scream, "Look at me!" They fail in human scale; they fail to heighten our sense and enjoyment of the public realm; they fail in creating any interconnected liveliness within their neighborhoods. Many, in their desolation, are just plain scary.

And I'm worried that we're about to build another one: Renaissance Square, a huge building that clashes with our classic architecture; solves no particular problem; brings essentially no new activities to the area; alienates the sidewalks and surrounding neighborhood by creating long, bleak, impenetrable streetscapes; and effectively hides people from sight, magnifying already desolate streets.

The "experts" know how to create streets, buildings, and parks (indeed entire neighborhoods) that work for people. And if they don't, there are plenty of outsiders willing to help. (Many, such as Charleston's Mayor Riley and Main Street authority Norman Mintz, have already been here. Did anyone listen?)

Why can't we get focused on projects that will truly bring us revitalization? The suggested re-watered canal project seems to hold great promise.

Why can't we build on our strengths? The Public Market is a huge success in an unattractive, decrepit setting. Why not be brave, move it to someplace downtown, and make it fabulous?

Why can't we admit it when something is hopeless? Tear down Midtown Plaza, for goodness sakes! You want something Italian downtown? Build a true Italian piazza. Crown it with a wonderful fountain. Include a small outdoor amphitheater; line it with small shops, restaurants with outdoor seating, and a few stories of condominiums with lovely balconies overlooking it all.

This city needs something drastic. But iconic architecture? No thanks; that is not going to do the job, just as it hasn't in the past.

Cynthia Kindle, Webster