Windows, street frontage, and street furniture may increase walkability

Reid Ewing & Amir Hajrasouliha & Kathryn M. Neckerman & Marnie Purciel-Hill & William Greene, "Streetscape Features Related to Pedestrian Activity," Journal of Planning Education and Research 36 (2015): 1

Abstract (comprehensive): By measuring twenty streetscape features and numerous other variables for 588 blocks in New York City, we were able to identify variables that explain pedestrian traffic volumes. We found significant positive correlations between three out of twenty streetscape features with pedestrian counts after controlling for density and other built environmental variables. The significant streetscape features are the proportion of windows on the street, the proportion of active street frontage, and the number of pieces of street furniture. This study provides guidance for streetscape projects that aim to create walkable streets and pedestrian-friendly environments.

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