Monday, May 23, 2016

The Importance 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.

The cost and creation of these areas are often a collaboration among multiple parties. In most cases, the responsibility would fall on city officials and local non-profits willing to share the cost. In others, there may be assistance from local, state and federal governments depending on the size and scope of the operation. Costs can often vary as some cities may wish to include installing fountains, landscaping and statues. Whereas, others merely close off street traffic without creating new elements.

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.

Over the last twenty to thirty years, many of these areas have been remodeled or restructured. Regardless, most of these areas are still popular with shoppers and tourists. Two of the most historic of these areas are the San Antonio Riverwalk and Times Square in New York.

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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