(imitating the way vendors use the space), or on the street (taking up the space that a car would usually use for parking).[2] The locations should be chosen carefully, providing enough pedestrian traffic so that the Lookouts receive attention and attract users, but not so much activity that they end up becoming an obstacle on busy streets. The second step in the proposal is to design the different elements that will make up the interventions. While only three basic elements are needed, they can be complemented with ornament and decoration that make the lookouts more attractive and inviting. The first element is a surface on the ground. This serves for marking the space, which is a crucial gesture in the appropriation process. Here designs can easily be done with paint, and can draw from some of the creative principles of the Art Murals and Crosswalks proposals or community charrettes in order to make it attractive and appealing. After defining the location, and marking it, seating should be provided. Several strategies can be used to ensure that the seats remain in the space and are not taken elsewhere and then lost. One of these strategies is to use existing walls as support for benches by anchoring corner brackets and wooden boards to the wall. Another strategy is making seats heavy so that they cannot be easily carried away, but can still be shifted around a little bit so that the user can arrange the space as he pleases. These seats can be anchored with a heavy concrete base and then made more comfortable with the use of wooden elements for the seats themselves. Finally, lighting should be introduced to make the space usable at night. Solar powered lamps can be attached to nearby structures making Lookouts active after sunset, and thus contributing to the safety and general streetscape of the neighborhood. The lighting element of this proposal can tie back to the Beacons of Light proposal (described previously under Infrastructure proposals) by contributing to the lighted paths, and providing a space from where to appreciate the lighted Gingerbreads. Two locations have been chosen as pilot projects for intervention. Both are within the Turgeau node, which seems to fulfill the need for well-balanced street activity, and has the added value of gorgeous, visually accessible Gingerbreads, and beautiful views of the Port-au-Prince bay. The first spot lies among a concentration of Gingerbreads on Rue 4, and the second one is at the top of the hill on Rue 2. These suggestions are only examples of places that might be selected as Lookouts, but there are many other locations that could be adapted, creating a network of public space that improves quality of life throughout the study area. If successful, these temporary projects could work as a tool to attract funding for more permanent interventions.
Schematic Lookouts proposals.
Alternative Funding Sources. Many lesser-developed countries often experience difficulties in obtaining traditional financing, especially during times of political or economic instability. Furthermore, these nations rely heavily on remittances and direct foreign investment as substantial sources of funding. This scarcity of capital can significantly hinder the completion of vital projects and advocacy efforts. Since government-affiliated funding alone cannot cover these financing gaps, it becomes necessary to develop innovative financial instruments.
A. Gingerbread Sponsorship Programs. The unique nature of Gingerbreads within the study area presents an interesting opportunity for broader audience engagement and international collective action. The creation of an “Adopt-A-Gingerbread� program would offer individuals, groups, and organizations alike the opportunity to sponsor the restoration of a Gingerbread in Port-au-Prince. By incorporating each
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