Better Market Street transforms downtown retail, transit, and public space into a continuous corridor that supports walking, local business, and reliable mobility. By rethinking curb uses, lighting, and street furniture, the project aims to reduce conflicts between vehicles, buses, bikes, and pedestrians.
This effort aligns with broader urban design strategies that prioritize people moving at different speeds and modes. The following sections outline what is changing, why it matters, and how performance will be measured over time.
| Focus Area | Current State | Target State | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Realm Quality | Fragmented sidewalks, limited seating | Continuous sidewalks, wider paths, more trees | Improved comfort and safety for walkers |
| Transit Speed | Mixed traffic slows buses | Dedicated lanes, signal priority | More reliable bus travel times |
| Retail Visibility | Parking dominance blocks storefronts | Reduced curb parking, improved storefront lighting | Higher foot traffic for local businesses |
| Traffic Flow | On-street parking reduces capacity | Streamlined vehicle lanes, fewer conflicts | Smoother car and delivery movement |
Design Standards for Better Market Street
Physical Infrastructure and User Experience
Design standards define consistent curb heights, crosswalk markings, and lighting levels so visitors can move safely and predictably. Clear signage, street furniture clusters, and accessible ramps reduce conflicts and support people using mobility devices.
Material Choices and Sustainability
Materials such as durable pavers, high-visibility markings, and permeable surfaces help manage stormwater and long-term maintenance costs. These choices support environmental goals while keeping streetscapes visually coherent.
Economic Impacts for Local Businesses
Customer Behavior and Spending Patterns
Improved walkability and outdoor seating options can increase dwell time and impulse purchases. Better Market Street aims to create a destination corridor where visitors notice storefronts and feel comfortable browsing.
Delivery and Loading Efficiency
Consolidated loading zones and protected service lanes help merchants receive goods without disrupting through traffic. Faster, more predictable deliveries reduce operational friction and support smaller retailers competing with larger chains.
Policy and Governance Framework
Regulations and Incentives for Property Owners
Updated zoning and design guidelines align private development with corridor goals, including façade improvements and accessibility. Incentive programs may offset costs for businesses adopting streetscape upgrades or adopting sustainable practices.
Public-Private Partnerships
Coordination among city departments, local business groups, and community organizations ensures that investment decisions reflect shared priorities. Clear performance metrics and reporting intervals help stakeholders track progress and adjust strategies.
Implementation Roadmap for Better Market Street
- Complete baseline studies for traffic, pedestrian volumes, and business conditions
- Engage residents, workers, and merchants through workshops and surveys
- Pilot temporary improvements such as pop-up bike lanes and parklets
- Update zoning, design codes, and maintenance responsibilities
- Scale successful pilots to permanent streetscape and transit upgrades
FAQ
Reader questions
How will Better Market Street affect parking availability for nearby shoppers?
On-street parking may be reduced on some blocks, but new loading zones and shared parking agreements with nearby facilities can offset the change. The goal is to prioritize short, efficient parking trips while improving access to storefronts.
Will transit signal priority actually make buses faster on Market Street?
Yes, transit signal priority and dedicated bus lanes are designed to reduce delays at intersections, especially during peak hours. Faster bus speeds help stabilize travel times and make public transport a more reliable option.
What happens to street vendors and outdoor dining under these design changes?
Design guidelines incorporate space for permitted street vendors and outdoor dining, with clear rules on placement, safety, and accessibility. The intent is to support small entrepreneurs while maintaining a clear and accessible public realm.
How will the city measure success for Better Market Street over time?
Key performance indicators such as pedestrian counts, transit on-time performance, crash rates, and retail vacancy will be tracked regularly. Public reports and periodic design adjustments help ensure that interventions deliver measurable benefits.