A ‘walkable’ Mission

Mission Street now looks too much like a collection of sterile strip malls.

City planners are correct in their aim to make Mission Street more ‘walkable,’ or appealing to pedestrians.

Mission Street is a critical road in the city. It functions as one of the main avenues for businesses. Its appearance should reflect this fact.

Now, however, it is less amenable to pedestrians than it should be. Ordinances should aim primarily to change that.

The appeal of a more ‘walkable’ Mission Street fits perfectly within the ideal of a small, college town.

Students and residents alike should be encouraged to walk from place to place, especially in warmer months. Ideally, a greater proportion of pedestrians would reduce traffic congestion.

Of course, a more pleasant appearance will not necessarily prompt people to walk instead of drive. But it can make the trek more enjoyable -