June 3, 2006

Tampa Seeks Walkability, Sense of Place in Medeira Way District

Plans to revitalize Tampa Bay's Medeira Way pay careful attention to pedestrian-friendly ambiance. "Streetscaping, which involves parking, sidewalks, lighting, landscaping and medians as well as traffic flow, is the first phase in a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the city’s downtown retail and commercial district," according to the Beach Beacon.

All three proposals presented at a public meeting include "reducing traffic flow along the thoroughfare from four lanes to two. Sidewalk space is increased, creating a pedestrian environment that could accommodate amenities such as sidewalk cafes, plantings, benches and gathering places, said HTBN urban design principal Craig Watson."

The idea is to offer a sense of place where shoppers want to stroll and linger.

Residents and business owners attending a presentation "appeared to be favorably impressed" with the concepts, the newspaper said.

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