Meeting the Sustainable Urban Development Objectives of Niagara Falls

GREENWAYS LEADING THE WAY: MEETING THE SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES OF NIAGARA FALLS, NY.
Round 1 Submission
Date of Submission:
November 02, 2021 Executive Summary
The City of Niagara Falls, NY., is facing the unique challenge of declining urban quality and attractiveness, contributing to its population loss in recent years and tourists' negative quality evaluations, especially compared to the Ontario side. These conditions are partly due to localized urban sprawl occurring without growth, contributing to adverse social outcomes and increased reliance on automobiles. However, sustainable urban development projects can help rejuvenate the city's physical quality and environmental performance to attract and retain visitors and residents while positioning itself effectively for future growth. As an example of this possibility, this report evaluates the viability of incorporating a greenway from Niagara St. and 3rd St. to Niagara Falls State Park to promote sustainable urban development in the city.
Table of Contents
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Executive Summary  PAGEREF _Toc88225459 \h
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Introduction  PAGEREF _Toc88225460 \h
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Problem Statement  PAGEREF _Toc88225461 \h
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Proposed Greenway  PAGEREF _Toc88225462 \h
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Background  PAGEREF _Toc88225463 \h
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Consideration of Potential Disparities  PAGEREF _Toc88225464 \h
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Information Sources  PAGEREF _Toc88225465 \h
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Interpretation  PAGEREF _Toc88225466 \h
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Protection from elements  PAGEREF _Toc88225467 \h
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Accessibility  PAGEREF _Toc88225468 \h
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Aesthetic appeal  PAGEREF _Toc88225469 \h
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Recreational utility and opportunities for programmed activities  PAGEREF _Toc88225470 \h
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Findings  PAGEREF _Toc88225471 \h
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Recommendations  PAGEREF _Toc88225472 \h
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Implementation  PAGEREF _Toc88225473 \h
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Conclusion  PAGEREF _Toc88225474 \h
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Bibliography  PAGEREF _Toc88225475 \h
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GREENWAYS LEADING THE WAY: MEETING THE SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES OF NIAGARA FALLS, NY.
Introduction
From the 1960s to the 70s, car-free shopping streets were critical in developing initiatives to increase economic activity, attract visitors, and retain residents in many US cities. Despite their success, there are only a few remaining today. With the current rate of urbanization and population growth and the concerns over climate change, it is essential to promote sustainable initiatives. In line with this, the pandemic has restarted a fundamental debate: the importance of pedestrianized outdoor, outdoor, and green spaces. Specifically, there is a need for city design interventions foc...