Pedestrian opportunities analysis We counted the number of shops and services along street edges from the east end of the Clematis Street corridor through to the waterfront. This revealed abundant opportunities for pedestrians on Clematis Street, and a scarcity of opportunities approaching the water. Research
has shown that when there are fewer opportunities, pedestrian counts are lower, they walk faster, and they are less likely to linger.34 This opportunities gap may partially account for low pedestrian numbers on the waterfront test site, even with the intervention in place.
Figure 28: Opportunity analysis shows that the number of opportunities per 100 yards declines as we approach the waterfront. Adding various opportunities on the waterfront can help draw visitors.
Notes from post-tour interviews In informal interviews following final tours, participants noted with appreciation that the intervention offered comfort, shade, and the ability to move their chairs; it also piqued their curiosity. Given previous research on restorative environments, we were not surprised that it had a positive effect on wellbeing. But what elements were most successful? Participant responses offer some hints. èèSome respondents told us they liked the ‘grassroots’ and personal/non-institutional feel of the intervention.
èèSome commented on the discomfort created by hot Florida sun, and noted that on summer days, they would not use the waterfront without shade. èèSeveral people expressed discomfort with the homeless presence on the waterfront and nearby. They preferred not to use benches in proximity to the homeless. Specifically, some complained about the scent of homeless people, their loud talking and yelling, and aggressive panhandling.
èèSome liked being able to move chairs and tables to control comfort and social exposure. èèSome liked being reminded of local history and sense of uniqueness. Happier by Design // Shore to Core Back to Contents
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