Security zones create ‘architecture of fear’

Parts of America’s most prominent downtowns remain largely sealed off as security zones, which has led to blighted landscapes, limited public access and a need for a new approach to urban planning, according to a new study.

January 2, 2011

One decade after the 9/11 attacks, parts of America’s most prominent downtowns remain largely sealed off as security zones, which has led to blighted landscapes, limited public access and a need for a new approach to urban planning, according to a new study.

“Our most open, public cities are becoming police states,” said Jeremy Németh, assistant professor of planning and design at the University of Colorado Denver. “While a certain amount of security is necessary after terror attacks, no amount of anti-terror architecture would have stopped the 9/11 attacks, or the Madrid or London subway bombings. And by limiting access and closing off space, we limit the potential for more `eyes on the street’ to catch possible acts in the process.”

Security Zones Create ‘Architecture of Fear’