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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.

Pedestrian malls are often much larger than plazas. In most cases, these encompass three to four blocks with different type storefronts which have been closed off to street traffic. As such, deliveries, musicians and others must often use side streets in order to access these areas.

Originally, these areas came to the United States in the 1960s and 1970s. It was during this time that a number of cities began installing these malls. As shopping malls were being established on the outskirts of many cities at the time, the efforts were two-fold. One being to create a safe walking space away from traffic, the other to keep shoppers coming downtown rather than going to new enclosed shopping centers.

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.

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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