Author: Ben Surma

Ben Surma

Ben Surma

Ben Surma grew up in Greater Minnesota (or as he likes to call it, "Greatest Minnesota") and now lives in the Twin Cities. He discovered urbanism overseas and wants to bring a little bit of it back here.

Pseudo-Public Spaces

Recently, The Guardian made waves with a story on the spread of “pseudo-public spaces” in London. Pseudo-public spaces appear to be typical public spaces such as parks and plazas, but are privately owned and subject to (often secret) rules that are enforced by private security. Some of London’s most prominent landmarks are surrounded by corporate-owned plazas […]

The City That Made Me an Urbanist

A few years ago, like many other young Americans, I ventured to Europe for a study abroad experience. In my case, I spent half a year in the city of York, England. What I saw in York thrilled me: a city that was actually a place for people rather than cars. What an idea! I […]