Once a year I have to give a pitch for more heated sidewalks around the city. Last year there was a buzz circulating that heated sidewalks were at least on the radar of planners who were dealing with putting traffic on Main Street (see post). It was the first time that I had ever seen the issue brought up… heated sidewalks made the list of items that were being discussed. Apparently Main Street is not high on the list of districts to be overhauled, and now that we’re seeing progress surrounding the Inner Harbor, it might be a good time to at least look into the option for any commercial stretches that might be planned.
Recently we have seen some smaller developers taking advantage of the technology. Lu Modern Classics on Elmwood has heated walks, as does the 24-hour store. It doesn’t matter which commercial district you happen to be located in, lack of shoveling is a big problem and prevents people from wanting to shop and eat. Even if the businesses are good about it, the crosswalks can be very treacherous. Maybe the technology is too expensive to consider for entire districts, but there are always major sections of sidewalks that should be considered for this type of amenity. Next year the Inner Harbor will be open to the public… it would be nice to add some year ‘round features into any future planning.
queenseyes
Newell Nussbaumer is 'queenseyes' - Eyes of the Queen City and Founder of Buffalo Rising. Co-founder Elmwood Avenue Festival of the Arts. Co-founder Powder Keg Festival that built the world's largest ice maze (Guinness Book of World Records). Instigator behind Emerald Beach at the Erie Basin Marina. Co-creator of Rusty Chain Beer. Instigator of Buffalo Porchfest, and Paint vs. Paint. Founder of The Peddler retro and vintage market on Elmwood. Instigator behind Liberty Hound @ Canalside. Throws The Witches Ball at Statler City, the Hertel Alley Street Art Festival, and The Flutterby Festival. And his latest adventure... FigBuffalo, with the intention of creating a Buffalo United Fashion Front (BUFF). Contact Newell Nussbaumer | Newell@BuffaloRising.com