Modern Mobility Aloft: Elevated Highways, Architecture, and Urban Change in Pre-Interstate America

In the first half of the 20th century, urban elevated highways were statements of civic pride, asserting modern visions for a city's architecture, economy, and transportation network. Modern Mobility Aloft is the first study to focus on pre-Interstate urban elevated highways in American architectural and urban history, tracing the idealistic roots, contrasting realities, and impacts on successive development patterns.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2020
Publisher: Temple University Press,U.S.

In the vibrant tapestry of the first half of the twentieth century, urban elevated highways emerged as much more than mere utilitarian infrastructure; they became beacons of civic pride, boldly proclaiming modern visions for a city's architecture, economy, and transportation network. These towering structures, inspired by visionary architects like Le Corbusier and Hugh Ferriss, soared above the streets, symbolizing a bold assertion of urban progress. Yet, despite their audacious aspirations, three of the most ambitious projects launched in Chicago, New York, and Boston—in the spirit of utopian models—fell short of their ideals.

Modern Mobility Aloft, a groundbreaking study, delves into the realm of pre-Interstate urban elevated highways within the rich tapestry of American architectural and urban history. Authored by Amy Finstein, this captivating work unravels the idealistic roots of these superstructures, exploring their contrasting realities once constructed, their profound impacts on subsequent development patterns, and the ongoing challenges they present to contemporary urban designers.

Packed with over 100 historic photographs and illustrations showcasing the exquisite beaux arts and art deco architecture, Modern Mobility Aloft offers a critical lens through which to understand the intricate landscapes of cities as they transitioned into the modern era. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Finstein sheds light on the intricate interplay between urbanization, transportation, and technological advancements, providing a profound understanding of the forces that shaped the urban landscape of the past and continue to shape our cities today.

This captivating book serves as a valuable resource for architects, urban planners, historians, and anyone passionate about the evolution of cities. It offers a poignant reminder of the dreams and aspirations that drove the construction of these iconic elevated highways, while also providing a sobering reflection on the realities that often stood in their way. Modern Mobility Aloft serves as a testament to the enduring power of architecture and urban design to shape the future of our cities, and encourages us to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as we navigate the rapidly changing urban landscape.

Weight: 752g
Dimension: 178 x 254 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781439919187