Many people use the street to conduct daily business. Their front doors line the street edge; their goods and services extend out onto the sidewalks; they run stalls within the street or push carts throughout the city. These people play a key role in shaping vibrant and dynamic streets.
Often mobile in nature, but sometimes fixed, on-street commercial activities are part of every large city, responding to demand for goods and services that is highly specific and varies with time and location. Street vendors, kiosk owners, fruit stalls, food trucks, and the extension of commercial establishments provide convenient services to commuters, pedestrians, and nearby residents. Spaces for business activities should be incorporated into the design of the street.
Where demand is likely to exist—in locations such as central markets, tourist attractions, and transit stations—include dedicated spaces on expanded sidewalks or in parking lanes.
These uses can activate otherwise blank building edges and, when situated in a parking lane, provide a welcome buffer between pedestrians and adjacent moving traffic.