Reasoning & Evidence
Streets make up a huge network of the built environments, which can be leveraged to create space for social interactions when streets are activated as places for connection. Multipurpose use opportunities for streets include complete streets, play streets, block parties, and traffic calming measures. Designating play streets provides safe, car-free zones for children and families to recreate and play in spaces that are easily accessible. In local, urban settings, play streets reduce the barrier of traveling for recreation, which is associated with higher physical activity levels and reduced health inequalities. Simultaneously, play streets can foster community connections between children and parents by creating space for socialization and building social capital.(17) Rural communities have also succeeded in implementing play streets as well, by incorporating play streets with other community events to increase participation where traveling across geographic dispersion is a barrier.(18)
When organized safely, block parties can foster neighborhood cohesion by stitching together socially isolated societies and encouraging neighbors to live more socially connected lives.(19) While there are known benefits to hosting block parties, many cities discourage the gatherings through extensive and expensive application processes. Seattle has taken steps to encourage block parties by implementing free applications and a simple permit process with short processing times, which leads to between 200-250 block parties hosted in the city each year. Neighborhood residents in Seattle report a strong sense of community following block parties, with increased neighborhood trust and lasting connections.(19)
In dense urban sprawls, traffic and high vehicle speeds in residential areas reduce the potential for social interactions on streets. Traffic calming measures can transform streets into public open spaces that facilitate social cohesion and connection.(20) Features such as raised crosswalks, narrowed car lanes, and traffic gardens can increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists who are commuting or enjoying leisure activities. Safe routes for active transportation are recommended for creating age-friendly communities as they facilitate the ability of older adults to age in place and maintain their social networks.(21) Additionally, tactical urbanism is a tool to create social environments in dense urban areas, with examples such as pop-up stores, food trucks, and parklets.(21)
Examples of Community Implementation
Barcelona, Spain: La Rambla Street in Barcelona maximizes its space by integrating quality public transport, walking facilities, and open space functions on an urban, main road. Users can explore vibrant green spaces, a multitude of shops and restaurants, walking access along the waterfront, and various spaces designed for sitting and socially interacting. Other areas in Barcelona use the Superblock Model to promote public space by closing several streets to traffic, which reduces noise and emissions and strengthens social interactions among neighbors. Reclaiming streets for social interactions improves Barcelona resident’s community relations and sense of belonging.(23)
United States: National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign in the USA that promotes neighborhood camaraderie and relationships between residents and law enforcement to foster a sense of community. Millions of neighborhoods participate each summer across all 50 states by hosting block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts, youth events, and safety demonstrations. Since 1984, National Night Out builds a safe community to rediscover community and triumph over a socially isolating culture.
Reference: The SOCIAL Framework: The Transportation Supplemental Brief
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