Revitalizing downtown Walpole: Enhancing the pedestrian experience
Part 2 of 2
15 October 2024
Downtown Walpole is a dynamic place where there are constant changes and investments in our central business district by the town and others. It has become a destination that is more than the sum of its parts. Walpole’s town center has pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and streets, inviting walkways, signage, attractive storefronts and beautiful green spaces. There is, however, room for improvement. As a community-led, volunteer non-profit organization, Destination Downtown advocates, fundraises and supports vitalization efforts and initiatives. We recognize that some additional amenities are needed to complement those already in place as well as some infrastructure improvements and exterior building renovations. More public and private investment is needed.
Alleyway to public parking.
A walkable, pedestrian-friendly downtown could be enhanced by planting more trees and building wider sidewalks to improve safety. Upgrades like tree-lined sidewalks are not only prettier but add shade from the sun and help people feel less exposed when walking outside. There is an economic component to street trees, as well. One study showed that businesses located on tree-lined streets may benefit up to 14 percent higher income streams than businesses in plazas or treeless streets.
Walpole has a unique opportunity to enhance the alleyways that connect Main Street to public parking lots. Investments in these alleyways such as better lighting, art installations, and murals, as well as some landscaping and garden plots, could be a game changer downtown. If these alleys were more appealing to people, the parking lot would be better utilized, take more traffic off Main Street, and provide a more user-friendly and enjoyable experience downtown.
Pedestrians still need to take caution while crossing streets downtown, even where crosswalks are present. Research shows it’s not the presence of a crosswalk at an intersection, but how well-marked and visible it is to the vehicle driver. Basic crosswalks need to be at every intersection in a central business district, be clearly marked, and be easy to use. High visibility crosswalks should have a warning sign for drivers. More of these are needed in our busy central business district.
A more walkable downtown also fuels a stronger economy. When people are out of their cars and walking around downtown, they’re more likely to patronize local businesses. Money that might have otherwise been spent online or outside of Walpole is instead invested in local merchants, creating a more prosperous business community. At times, for various special events, the town closes some downtown streets to connect green spaces or establish pedestrian plazas, further enhancing walkability and a sense of community.
Mural on outside wall of Bianco’s Pizza.
Downtown Walpole has a lot going for it, but it has so much more potential. We look forward to enhancing the downtown experience, growing its business base and further advancing the food and restaurant cluster that is emerging in our central business district. But we can’t do it alone. We need your help! If you would like to get involved, reach out to us at: hello@walpoledowntown.org.
-Spotlight article contributed by Rick Ward
