I have mixed opinions about this project thus far. Some parts are quite nice, but there are a lot of really annoying flaws as well. So far I still prefer the original pre-2000's hub without a doubt, but this isn't without its merits either. I'd say the exterior ring is actually coming together quite nicely, and at least in those areas they're filling it with some trees. Sparkling trees no less, lovely to have them again (looks like they've added more lit trees since I visited in May too). I like the railings and bridge design. And I do love fountains, they're very nice along with the bronze statues.
I'm not really feeling the new turrets so far though. Maybe it will look better when finished and when they remove the temporary stage/lighting crap. But so far it looks kind of off. I'd have preferred the sides been filled out with trees like Tokyo used to be. The (apparently permanent) light poles are awful as well, as has been discussed. They've been very intrusive in practically every photo i've seen. I also don't like the look of the astroturf either, i've actually seen better fake grass (though I dislike fake grass as a rule regardless).
So it's kind of a mixed bag so far. Plenty to like, plenty to dislike, still doesn't match the consistent beauty of the original pre-2000s hub though. Though I am relieved there's a good quantity of new trees around the edges if we can't have any in the center. I hope they're allowed to grow nice and tall.
