Friday, May 27, 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.

While most of these spaces are located in downtown areas, there is a new push to put these green spaces within roundabouts and intersections. In most cases, these areas also work to revitalize neighborhoods as well strengthen or re-establish economic vitality. Whatever the reason, drivers and pedestrians often benefit from these pedestrian oriented spaces.

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.

The idea first came about in the 1960s and 1970s, at which time a number of cities began installing these open air shopping centers. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the new shopping mall craze started and these areas started losing business, with many becoming defunct over time. The take over of mom and pop shops in the early to mid-1990s did not help in what many had hoped to be a period of revitalization.

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.

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.

In smaller cities like Eureka, California, there are several pedestrian malls which feature boardwalks, walkways and one area with a cement bench and a gazebo. Whereas, others are located along the waterfront with restaurants, ice cream parlors and shops. One of the primary features of the area is a touring vessel which hosts cocktail, moonlight and other tours of Humboldt Bay. In most all cases, these areas play host to a variety of events including farmers' markets, festivals and live music on an ongoing basis.




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