Pedestrian Malls: An Important Tool to Build Vibrant Cities
From Copenhagen, to Annapolis, to Denver, to Santa Monica, pedestrian zones (sometimes known as pedestrian malls), have proven to be a powerful tool in revitalizing downtown areas and transforming them into vibrant urban centers. These designated urban areas closed off to vehicular traffic and reserved exclusively for foot traffic are not a new concept, but their popularity increased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic. By prioritizing pedestrians over cars, these spaces foster economic growth, enhance social interaction, and contribute to environmental sustainability, all of which are critical components in the revival of city centers.
Pedestrian-oriented city centers were once the norm. Before the automobile, towns were built to facilitate walking. Streets around the world were filled exclusively by pedestrians, horses, and later trains. Only in the last hundred years has the car become a primary mode of transportation, particularly in North America. Older medieval cities in Europe continue to have historical urban cores better suited to walking and biking than driving.
Though some towns have always been car free, such as Michigan’s Mackinac Island and Venice, Italy, the concept of the modern urban “pedestrian mall” was developed by Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1959 when two blocks of Burdick Street were closed to automobiles. Boulder, Colorado was also an early proponent of a car-free downtown, turning the area around the Boulder County Courthouse into the Pearl Street Mall in 1977. The idea took off during the COVID-19 pandemic when cities across the country closed streets to facilitate outdoor dining and increased social distancing. Stephan Schmidt and Yuqing Zhang, both at Cornell University, identified 157 American municipalities that implemented some version of car-free streets between 2020 and 2021.
Though many cities that closed streets to cars during the pandemic have since reopened them to vehicle traffic, pedestrian malls should remain an important tool in city planners’ toolbox when looking to revive city centers and promote sustainable development.
One of the most compelling arguments for pedestrian malls is their ability to stimulate local economies. When streets are closed to vehicles, they become more accessible and attractive to shoppers, diners, and tourists. This increased foot traffic naturally benefits local businesses, from retail stores to restaurants and cafes. In Montreal, a temporary pedestrian zone resulted in a massive increase in foot traffic. A similar “pedestrianization” trial in Dublin was overwhelmingly popular. Without the noise, emissions, and danger associated with cars, people are more likely to linger, explore, and spend money. This environment also encourages the growth of small businesses and startups, which find a supportive and bustling customer base in these pedestrian-friendly zones.
Moreover, pedestrian malls, when well-managed, can serve as incubators for cultural and community activities. They often become venues for street performances, farmers’ markets, art installations, and public events, which draw diverse crowds and foster a sense of community. These activities not only entertain but also promote civic pride and cultural engagement. The flexibility of these spaces allows for seasonal festivals, holiday markets, and spontaneous gatherings, making downtown areas dynamic and ever-changing.
Social interaction is significantly enhanced in well-designed pedestrian malls. The absence of cars creates a safer and more relaxed environment, encouraging people to walk, meet friends, and engage in conversations. When provided, public seating areas, greenery, and open spaces invite people to pause and enjoy their surroundings, fostering connections among residents and visitors alike. Brutalist pedestrian malls and plazas which have been deemed failures often featured vast swaths of open concrete with few inviting features. Those who ventured out into them were forced to walk unnecessarily long distances between potential destinations with little to look at or engage with. Though relatively cheap to build, projects such as the Empire State Plaza in Albany, New York, or Boston’s Government Center lack the warmth and human scale of more successful pedestrian zones. When well built, a pedestrian mall can enhance the sense of community that is essential for the social fabric of any city.
Environmental benefits can be another crucial aspect of pedestrian malls. Reducing vehicular traffic decreases air pollution and noise levels, contributing to a healthier urban environment. The Congress for the New Urbanism has estimated that pedestrian friendly environments produce reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 4 tons per year compared to vehicle dependent areas. Incorporating effective mass transit or bicycle- friendly travel routes into pedestrian malls is crucial to achieving environmental benefits. Otherwise, pedestrian zones will only result in worse traffic (and emissions) on streets that remain open to vehicles. Nonetheless, by encouraging walking short distances, pedestrian malls can support broader environmental goals by reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable urban mobility. Additionally, these areas can incorporate green infrastructure, such as trees, plants, and sustainable drainage systems, which improve air quality and provide shade, making the space more comfortable during hot weather and reducing the risk of flooding.
The design and planning of pedestrian malls play a critical role in their success. Thoughtful urban design can transform these spaces into attractive and functional areas that meet the needs of diverse user groups. Features such as ample seating, public art, and interactive installations create an inviting atmosphere. Walkways should be wide, but also not too wide so as to make destinations feel “far” from each other or cause the space to feel desolate. If possible, different modes of transportation should be segregated from each other by providing protected bike paths and separate mass transit lanes. Accessibility should be a key consideration; pedestrian malls should be easily navigable for people of all ages and abilities, including those with mobility challenges.
Safety and security are paramount in pedestrian malls. Well-lit areas, visible security presence, and active programming can deter crime and ensure that people feel safe while enjoying a pedestrian zone. The presence of “eyes on the street,” a concept popularized by urbanist Jane Jacobs, is naturally achieved in bustling pedestrian malls, where constant activity and social engagement contribute to a secure environment. The feeling of “emptiness” can be a death knell for a pedestrian mall. Cities must work to prevent abandoned structures in pedestrian malls and prevent long stretches of open space. Nuisance crimes, like graffiti, drug use, public intoxication, and public urination, can cause users to feel unsafe in pedestrian zones. Police street crime units and social service providers should prioritize these areas to facilitate the feeling of safety necessary for a successful pedestrian mall.
Successful examples of pedestrian malls around the world illustrate their transformative potential. The Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, California, has become a thriving commercial and cultural hub, attracting both locals and tourists. In Copenhagen, Denmark, Strøget is one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe and has significantly contributed to the city’s reputation for livability and sustainable urban design. These examples demonstrate that, with the right planning and community support, pedestrian malls can breathe new life into downtown areas.
However, building successful pedestrian malls is not without challenges. Great care is needed to compensate for the loss of car access, logistical issues related to deliveries and emergency services, and the need for ongoing maintenance and programming are common hurdles. Planners should incorporate and not displace existing communities and businesses. Pedestrian malls should be built around existing landmarks or anchors, like sports stadiums or government centers, which will drive pedestrian traffic. Revamping preexisting commercial zones, like New Orleans’ French Quarter or San Antonio’s Riverwalk, often proves more successful than building from scratch. To address these concerns, cities must engage in comprehensive planning and stakeholder consultation. Providing alternative transportation options, ensuring efficient delivery logistics, and maintaining open communication with local businesses are essential strategies for overcoming resistance and ensuring the long-term success of pedestrian malls.
Since they were first proposed, pedestrian malls offer a multifaceted approach to reviving downtown areas and creating vibrant urban centers. By prioritizing pedestrians, these spaces stimulate economic activity, enhance social interactions, promote environmental sustainability, and contribute to the overall livability of cities. While challenges exist, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making pedestrian malls a valuable tool in the ongoing effort to rejuvenate urban cores and foster thriving, dynamic communities.
Nicholas Monck is a graduate of the University of Colorado Law School. He also received an Energy, Environmental, and Natural Resources Law and Policy Certificate and a Graduate Renewable Energy Certificate from the University of Colorado. He has previously written about urban planning in the University of Colorado Law Review. Opinions expressed are his own and do not represent the views of his employer.
