Plans have been proposed to expand downtown Boston's pedestrian-only shopping district with the hopes of improving the area's economic viability. Despite high pedestrian traffic, the shopping center has not been as successful as others in the city.
"Consultants hired to help remake Downtown Crossing are proposing to expand the pedestrian-centered shopping district while creating an oasis replete with sidewalk cafes, bicycle taxis, and a fresh-foods market similar to Harrods Food Hall in London."
"The multimillion dollar plan calls for closing parts of Bromfield and Franklin streets to vehicles, eliminating curbs throughout the pedestrian area, and installing barricades to restrict traffic. Washington Street, the axis of Downtown Crossing, is already closed to most vehicles."
"For years, Downtown Crossing has struggled to keep pace with other retail areas around Boston, despite daily pedestrian traffic of more than 100,000 people."
"The consultants said they considered options that included opening Downtown Crossing to automobile traffic -- a move that has worked in other cities -- but decided to preserve the pedestrian mall because of its heavy foot traffic, increasing residential density, and the convergence of subway lines."
FULL STORY: Pedestrian-centric plan for downtown
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service