Electric bicycle sales and shared e-bike rentals are on the rise around the country — Leaving transportation officials and policymakers struggling to keep up with the sudden popularity of a new form of transit that wasn’t envisioned when streets were designed and built. In one example of the boom, shared e-bike trips nearly doubled from…To read more — login/subscribe
Most downtowns host the usual array of events — fireworks on the Fourth of July, a tree lighting ceremony for the holidays, and perhaps a restaurant week. But often the most successful efforts are unique, home-grown events that resonate with locals and attract non-locals. A careful look at a community’s history, industry, and foods will…To read more — login/subscribe
In the 20th century, many cities tried to contain creeks, streams, and small rivers with concrete culverts and other engineering projects. In the 21st century, growing numbers of waterways are being set free. Restoring waterways to something like their natural order is a process known as "daylighting." The restoration projects are gaining attention globally and…Continue reading
For downtown leaders in cold climates, January is a time to hunker down and wait for the spring thaw. The rush of holiday events is over, and many downtowns won’t ramp up attraction efforts until warmer weather arrives. But if you want to spur some activity during the snowy time of year, take heart: Northern…To read more — login/subscribe
The Downtown Memphis Commission has been taking advantage of a state law aimed at fighting blight. The downtown organization makes occasional but aggressive use of the law, using it as a way to force owners of properties that are dangerous eyesores to take action. In one success story, the Downtown Memphis Commission used the Neighborhood…To read more — login/subscribe
Historic rehabilitation initiatives typically target old buildings. In Greenwood, MS (est. pop. 14,280), a preservation project spruced up an abandoned rail bed. Main Street Greenwood’s Rail Spike Park is a 1.7-mile long trail that turned a symbol of blight into something much more uplifting. The park serves as the southern boundary of downtown Greenwood, and…To read more — login/subscribe
When downtown residents are asked what they most want to see added to the business mix, a grocery store often tops the list. Post-recession economics may reduce the likelihood of chain grocers opening in downtown locations, but have instead spurred a new crop of grocery store co-ops. The June issue of Downtown Idea Exchange looks…Continue reading
To draw the community into an ongoing conversation, the city of Hagerstown, MD, launched its engageHagerstown website. The city posts questions and moderates discussions about important topics that will shape the future of the downtown. The inaugural question was: “What’s your big idea for downtown?” That first question generated “a ton of feedback,” says Sarah…Continue reading
How transit authorities can make the commute safe: • Work with employers to change work hours. Rush hour and social distancing are incompatible, so transit officials have been lobbying employers to stagger workers’ schedules. • Spread the crowds. Many transit agencies have cut passenger limits but added train cars, a move that allows passengers to…To read more — login/subscribe
As staff began returning to work at their offices, the Milwaukee Downtown BID #21 launched a program aimed at garnering support for downtown restaurants. The Comeback Cuisine initiative encourages companies to purchase boxed lunches for their employees as a “welcome back” or “thank you” for their continued service. The BID’s goal is to generate the…To read more — login/subscribe
