The pandemic created new challenges, opened fresh opportunities, and shifted the role of downtowns. In many ways, downtowns are as important as ever, according to The Value of U.S. Downtowns and Center Cities, a new report by the International Downtown Association (IDA). “While geographically small — on average 3 percent of all citywide land —…To read more — login/subscribe
Albany, GA (est. pop. 67,922), hopes to boost downtown visitation by embracing its connection to the civil rights movement. One project is a publicly funded reconfiguration of the Albany Civil Rights Institute, open since 2008 and adjacent to the restored 1906 Old Mt. Zion Church, known for its connection to Martin Luther King Jr. Also…To read more — login/subscribe
In West Palm Beach, FL (est. pop. 120,922), downtown leaders have generated outsized attention with a modest investment in public spaces. The Fern Street Chess Park has served as a gathering place for chess enthusiasts for the past two years. The park includes three tables with chessboards painted on top and metal boxes holding chess…To read more — login/subscribe
Bike libraries — a concept that lets people check out bicycles like books or DVDs — are popping up across the country. Some programs offer access to e-bikes, but most focus on traditional pedal-powered bikes. Some initiatives are associated with universities, others with public libraries. But all put bike share programs within reach of more…Continue reading
…on national averages or information from neighboring communities. Instead, Willson shows how readers can confidently develop their own requirements based on local parking data, an understanding of future trends affecting parking use, and clear policy choices. Case studies are used to illustrate what works, what doesn’t, and how to… Continue reading
In late 2023, Austin, TX (est. pop. 975,335), became the largest U.S. city to end parking requirements for new developments. During a nationwide housing shortage, proponents of eliminating parking requirements say the strategy gives developers the financial flexibility to build more housing units. Austin now allows developers of any type of project to build without…To read more — login/subscribe
Many cities with a population of 150,000 or less struggle to compete with their larger neighbors and often have trouble attracting residents and new businesses. Small Cities Thinking Big explores the many ways that these cities can compete on a larger scale without sacrificing their authentic small-town character. … Continue reading
In Redding, CA, a new venture has brought together 18 small shops in one location. Called Gather Downtown, it’s not quite a business incubator, not quite an antiques mart or a food hall. Instead, it’s a middle ground, an initiative that fills vacant space, nurtures local entrepreneurs, and provides a downtown gathering place. "We wanted…Continue reading
Downtowns are positioned to rebound strongly from the coronavirus pandemic. When that rebound might occur, however, is uncertain. That’s according to downtown leaders interviewed by Downtown Idea Exchange newsletter as the global pandemic spread. "Will we come back? Absolutely," says Dewitt Peart, president of the Downtown Austin Alliance in Austin, TX. However, Peart and others struggled to…Continue reading
