Robert Moses: The Power Broker | Hitch Mounts

Robert Moses was a polarizing figure in New York City's history, serving as a parks commissioner, secretary of state, and head of the Triborough Bridge Authority from the 1920s to the 1960s. With a Vibe score of 82, Moses' legacy is marked by controversy, with critics accusing him of prioritizing cars over people and displacing low-income communities. Despite this, he oversaw the construction of over 600 parks, 417 miles of highways, and numerous iconic landmarks, including the Triborough Bridge and Jones Beach State Park. Moses' influence can be seen in the work of contemporary urban planners, such as Jane Jacobs, who challenged his car-centric approach. As of 2023, Moses' legacy continues to be debated, with some hailing him as a visionary and others condemning his authoritarian tactics. With a controversy spectrum rating of 8/10, Moses' impact on New York City's urban landscape remains a topic of intense discussion, with many wondering what the city would be like if he had prioritized people over cars, a question that will continue to shape the city's future.