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The Futurist
Michael Shilale, AIA, Michael Shilale Architects, directs the state’s third largest chapter, with over 500 members across seven counties. This region includes communities ranked among the nation’s most desirable; however, its architects struggle to create sustainable environments that can accommodate a diverse population. Metro-North and the Hudson riverfront make transit-oriented development a logical organizing principle (Shilale cites the Harbors at Haverstraw as an exemplary New Urbanist case). He remains sanguine about his region’s future and his chapter’s capacity for public education.
One looming problem is the Tappan Zee Bridge, which Shilale says “has exceeded its useful life, both structurally and functionally.” Will its replacement be a new bridge with multimodal transport, or a frugal upgrade carrying vehicles but ignoring rail, pedestrians, and bicycles? Shilale believes his chapter deserves a voice in the decision.
His vision extends beyond the region. Citing observations by Edward Mazria, AIA, that buildings contribute about 50% of global greenhouse-gas emissions, Shilale calls for aggressive outreach about sustainable design strategies. Clients should understand how their long-range energy savings align with planetary imperatives, he believes; communities should embrace planning to strengthen tax bases and reduce sprawl. “We could never build the communities we all love again” under existing regulations, Shilale laments, calling for regional planning and closer alliances with allied professionals: “You can’t plan in a vacuum.”
by Bill Millard was published in the Spring 2006 issue of Oculus magazine titled Meet the AIA Local Chapter Presidents, reprinted with permission
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