Public Space Design and Use

Investing in the maintenance and upgrading of public spaces in downtowns can help to attract more pedestrians and street traffic and promote retailing and other local businesses. High-quality public spaces in both neighborhoods and downtowns foster community interaction and community pride, and can be used for a variety of events, such as farmers markets, festivals, and art displays.

Local governments may also simplify and expedite permitting regulations to allow vendors to offer sidewalk services, which increases pedestrian street activity in neighborhood and commercial centers.