Saturday 28 May 2016

The Pros And Cons Of Pedestrian Plazas And Malls

By Matthew Long


The current economy in many areas of the United States is still in a downturn. Wow, it appears on the surface some areas are making an economic comeback, this is not necessarily true when it comes to small town America. As such, a number of areas are installing pedestrian plazas and malls to help revitalize neighborhoods while also making it safer for pedestrian traffic.

Most of these new green spaces are being added to roundabouts, intersections and downtown areas. Although, cities and towns with bays, harbors and other water based attractions have also been adding these malls and plazas to existing boardwalks. A good example of this is the new boardwalk and walkways in Eureka, California.

In some cases, all vehicle traffic including bicycles, skateboards and hover boards are banned. In others, only non-motorized traffic including these other vehicles permitted. Whether or not bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles are allowed, pedestrians still often have an easier type maneuvering through these areas.

In other areas, pedestrian malls are a better option. When it comes these spaces, there are generally a number of shops located in areas which streets are closed to traffic. In these areas, delivery and emergency vehicles are often restricted to side streets. As such, those with deliveries, or musicians needing to move equipment need be sure to bring enough people power to do so.

In the 1960s, 1970s and early 1980s, the surge of shopping malls began to grow in the United States. As a result, many of the original pedestrian malls were closed due to a lack of pedestrian traffic. With a resurgence in the popularity of biking and walking, many of these areas are now being revitalized.

With a current push to create new space while revitalizing older plazas to boost the economy, there is still hope for some. For, many small cities and towns which experienced an economic downturn are now alive and well once again. However, others are just now looking at installing new green spaces, fountains, plants and trees to beautify different areas.

Other areas have been revitalized over the last five to ten years. Whereas, some areas now have work in progress with regards to installing new roundabouts and intersections. As such, there will most likely be a number of new green spaces and plazas installed during construction. After which, it is most likely pedestrians and drivers will have an easier time maneuvering through these area.

Whether a small town or big city, these efforts have not gone unnoticed. In fact, many more people are out walking more than ever before. As a result, businesses and special events held in these areas are also seeing more foot traffic. One of the biggest of these events in most areas is a weekly or bi-weekly Farmer's Market which host fresh produce and locally made merchandise.




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