Thursday, May 26, 2016

The Pros And Cons Of Pedestrian Plazas And Malls

By Matthew Long


When it comes to green and walking space, these are often limited in many inner-city areas. However, there is new interest in installing these areas in a number of large cities and small towns. Pedestrian plazas and malls often feature areas closed off from street traffic. In some cases, the areas are created to aid pedestrians. In others, the concept is to also revitalize the economy.

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.

Whether a pedestrian mall or plaza, the basic concept is to create a safer place for pedestrians and drivers. In most cases, the areas which host bars, shops and restaurants are going to be located in open air centers. Whereas, plazas are often found within roundabouts, intersections and other areas. In both cases, these areas are closed to motorized vehicles.

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.

These downtown malls were often made up of three to four linear blocks, all of which were blocked off to motorized vehicles. In most cases, there will be a variety of different type shops. In tourist prone areas, there are usually also coffee shops, restaurants and art galleries. In some cases, there may be a center plaza which hosts local events and entertainment.

Between the revitalization and events like Art walks, these areas have become popular once again. In some cases, like San Francisco, there are defunct areas in front of parking meters, or restaurants where small green spaces are being created on a regular basis. San Francisco and other cities also host special events in which the streets are closed to set up these spaces on a temporary basis once or twice a year. These events generally host a variety of artists' works at different businesses including art galleries, stores, bars and restaurants.

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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