Issue Papers

Streets

PPS approaches improvement of streets holistically, working to integrate the many elements within street environments to create places where people not only feel safe and comfortable, but also experience a sense of ownership and community.

To achieve such livable street environments, PPS focuses on achieving an equitable balance among pedestrian, bicycle, vehicle and other uses, while developing a mix of amenities and activities that contribute to pedestrian convenience and enjoyment. Traffic calming strategies, such as sidewalk extensions, traffic signal and parking changes, are applied to create more pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks. At the same time, PPS works to simplify the perceived circulation system for both motorists and pedestrians, as well as to improve transit access and use.

PPS's street improvement projects have included simple streetscape improvements, analysis of complex intersections and major thoroughfares, removal of pedestrian malls; light rail corridors, mixed vehicle/transit streets, bridge approaches, as well as plans for the street environments of entire downtowns and commercial districts. In all of these projects, PPS concentrates on responding to the needs of users, employing special study tools to determine the kinds of street improvements people actually require and want. These tools include time-lapse and documentary photography, systematic on-site observations, customized interviews and surveys and community envisioning workshops.

After decades of battling with traffic engineers over the fate of communities, PPS has begun a training program in Context Sensitive Design in the state of New Jersey.

Support Great Places - Become a PPS Member

Email this page