In an effort to continue the revitalization of its downtown area, Dallas has sought help in identifying the level of walkability of each separate downtown block.
Where once Dallas’ core was only alive during the business day, with little activity going on of an evening, the city’s center has seen an increase in residential, retail, and entertainment locals. However, to continue its resurgence the city, will need to connect its various urban hot spots with stretches of pedestrian-friendly walkways.
The evaluation of each segment of the city’s center, from intersection to intersection, is going to be accomplished by researchers and doctoral students of the University of Texas at Arlington’s Institute of Urban Studies. The study will likely be used by local entrepreneurs and developers to determine optimal locations for new endeavors. Established businesses can use the information in determining the best way to employ their marketing services.
Officials believe that in an urban core, people prefer to not have to hop in and out of their cars driving from one location to another. This first-of-a-kind walkability study of downtown Dallas will collect data concerning the condition of sidewalks, safety of crosswalks, and current concentration of pedestrians. Additionally, the ground-level enterprises, green space, and number of shade trees on each block will be noted so the city will know where to invest its funds for the most effect.
