Downtown Idea Exchange

Each month downtown leaders turn to Downtown Idea Exchange for practical news reports, how-to information, and hundreds of real-world examples of how downtowns are growing and prospering.

 


As residents complain about train horns, downtowns pursue quiet zones 

February 1, 2025
Cities everywhere are encouraging the development of housing and hotels downtown. One noisy problem: City centers often lie adjacent to railroad tracks, and train horns aren’t conducive to restful nights. Train horns can reach 110 decibels, a noise level similar to low-flying planes and emergency vehicle sirens, according to the Federal Railroad Administration. Train conductors,…To read more — login/subscribe

 

City prepares for outdoor celebration in shadow of New Orleans’ tragedy

February 1, 2025
High security portable bollards from Delta Scientific.  Following a New Year’s Day terror attack in New Orleans, Mobile, AL (est. pop. 182,594), is bolstering safety measures in advance of its annual Mardi Gras celebration in March. Last year’s Mardi Gras festivities drew more than 200,000 people to downtown Mobile. In January, the Mobile City Council…To read more — login/subscribe

 

‘Daylighting’ law prioritizes pedestrians

February 1, 2025
In 2025, California’s new “daylighting” law took effect. A measure designed to improve pedestrian safety, the restrictions prevent cars from parking near crosswalks. The idea is that with fewer vehicles blocking the line of sight between motorists and pedestrians, fewer walkers would be struck by vehicles. However, in 2024 the parking law’s first year, cities…To read more — login/subscribe

 

AARP Community Challenge grant 

February 1, 2025
Since 2017 AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons) has distributed millions of dollars through its AARP Community Challenge grant program. The 2024 grantees included an alley transformation project in Vallejo, CA, accessibility improvements to a crosswalk in downtown Torrington CT, the addition of wheelchair-accessible picnic tables to parks in downtown Angola, IN, creation…To read more — login/subscribe

 

Idea Exchange

February 1, 2025
Walking trail highlights downtown stores In Hartselle, AL, a new walking trail is winding its way through the city’s downtown. The initiative aims to promote heart health through low-impact exercise while simultaneously driving foot traffic to downtown businesses.  To guide walkers, signs were installed at two trail heads and decals were placed on sidewalks along…To read more — login/subscribe

 

Downtown Idea Exchange, February 2025

February 1, 2025
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Repurposing historic cotton mill provides new centerpiece

January 1, 2025
Eagle Cotton Mill Fairfield Inn & Suites received Indiana Landmarks’ Renaissance Award, which recognizes the revitalization of “long-decaying historic properties.” The Madison Main Street Program in Madison, IN (est. pop. 12,211), was founded way back in 1979, a moment when Rust Belt downtowns were still in their heyday. It was one of the nation’s first…To read more — login/subscribe