Breathing New Life into Downtown Alleys

June 15, 2012 - PRLog -- A dark and dingy alley behind a grocery store in Edmonton, AB, Canada (est. pop. 730,372), was transformed into a pop-up sculpture gallery in February to draw attention to these neglected downtown spaces.

Alley improvements are being implemented across North America to enhance connectivity, beautify streetscapes, and provide gathering spaces.

The funding sources for these projects are as diverse as the goals.

Community Development Block Grant funds totaling $178,209, along with $40,000 from the city of Ithaca, NY, will finance repaving of an alley and adjacent parking lot downtown. Stamped concrete sidewalks, decorative lighting, and upgraded storm drains will also be added.

Old Roma Alley in Glendale, AZ, will be brought into compliance with pedestrian improvements already completed in the city center using Federal Transportation Enhancement (FTE) funds, state department of transportation funds, and city funds.

Alamo Alley in downtown Brenham, TX, has been transformed into a landscaped pedestrian walkway connecting Alamo Street Boutiques to Main Street with the help of FTE funding.

The June issue of "Downtown Idea Exchange" includes additional information and details on alley improvement projects and funding sources from across North America.

About the Downtown Research & Development Center

For over 50 years, the Downtown Research & Development Center has acted as the information clearinghouse on practical strategies and tactics for revitalizing the hearts of our cities and towns.

The Group's main activities include publishing the widely influential Downtown Idea Exchange and Downtown Promotion Reporter newsletters; publishing relevant books and reports; and operating the DowntownDevelopment.com website.

Website: http://www.DowntownDevelopment.com