In the "Building the Beautiful City" report, Places are characterized as distinctive locations or outdoor "rooms" that are designed to increase the attractiveness of the public realm and improve the quality of the pedestrian environment.
Gateways are a type of Place-making device that transform strategic access points in the City's network of transportation corridors and open spaces into pleasing and memorable arrival points.
By definition, Gateways are in high profile, heavily traveled locations and, therefore subject to wide public exposure and influence. Their design requires a very thorough treatment that engages and enlists public support and presents a visible symbol of design excellence.
A request for proposals was issued in August 2005 inviting qualified proponents to work with stakeholders to create a range of alternative designs for three Urban Design Gateway sites.