Special Conditions

While the fundamental principles of putting people first must apply across the globe, it is critical to also identify and improve the special conditions that are unique to each place.

Cities were settled at different times, urbanized at varying rates, and have evolved and adapted to context, climate, and environmental conditions.

Special conditions within street networks often present unique opportunities for transformation. They can be leveraged to improve the quality of public space, provide new mobility choices, and re-imagine existing urban infrastructure. These strategic projects can have a transformative impact on the larger neighborhood far beyond the boundaries of the physical intervention.

Projects may include pedestrianization of historic centers, restoring natural waterways, redesigning elevated structures, revitalizing waterfront edges, or redeveloping outdated industrial neighborhoods. This chapter discusses just a few of the less traditional opportunities for street redesign.

Work with local governments, designers, and communities to identify special conditions in neighborhoods that are ripe for reinvention.