THE COLLINS SOCIETY

"The work of the Collins' Dutot Partnership puts its emphasis on the human dimension and the highest standards of urban design."
- Ada Louise Huxtable
COLLINS DESIGNS
Salem Chapter
MEMBERSHIP
A major focus of the Collin's Society is the preservation of urban streetscapes, such as fountains, plazas, trees, planters, and cobbles. Landscape architecture, after all, should be preserved with the same dedicated passion as architecture. We're also archiving documents, articles, and photographs pertaining to Salem's urban renewal.
COLLINS WALKING TOUR WITH AUDIO
Take a walk through history and experience first hand how Collins breathed new life into Salem during the 1970's. Follow the map to discover Collins' most notable contributions to the downtown area. Listen to the audio to learn the stories behind Urban Renewal and the creation of Salem's Pedestrian Mall.
ABOUT
In the early 1970's, Salem lay in ruins. Urban Renewal had failed and city leaders were desperate for a solution. At the recommendation of Edmund Bacon, landscape architect John F. Collins of Philadelphia was chosen to implement the Heritage Plaza East Plan. Over the course of ten years, Collins transformed Salem's downtown from a blighted, decaying eyesore to a beautifully designed, modern city.