Alleys are an important element in urban design. While they rarely still serve the technical functions they were intended to serve they offer a unique perspective of what is happening, and has happened, at the margins of the urban experience.
I always thought that one of the best things about living in downtown Indianapolis was the alleys. I loved knowing the shortcuts, but also they had this really pedestrian sense to them. In contrast to the large boulevards of the grid iron streets downtown the alleys provided a bit of refuge and at the same time some pleasant surprises. It is always easy to spot interesting architectural details, historic paving and public infrastructure or discarded belongings, art, furniture and other items in alleyways.
OTR has some great ones too. Unfortunately many have been separated from the rest of street network and public space because of an exploitation of their best qualities. Hopefully one day the eyes on the street will enable them to become part of the urban fabric again. Until then here are a few shots of some that remain open and have been terminated at some point or another.
justforview 