Strategy 1.2
Street grids
Vancouver’s streets follow a clear hierarchy. Illustration: Happy Cities
Provide a clear hierarchy of streets
1.2.1
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Differentiate main streets, side streets, laneways, and walking paths through design (i.e., width, pedestrian infrastructure, and signage).
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Design pedestrian routes that avoid busy main streets.
Small street blocks help people navigate their neighbourhoods more easily. Illustration: Happy Cities
Create small street blocks
1.2.2
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Create blocks that are 100-150 metres long per side. This distance equals around 2-4 minutes of walking time.
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Where large blocks exist, break them up with mid-block pedestrian connections and crosswalks.
Varied grid pattern in Detroit. Illustration: Happy Cities
Create a varied grid pattern
1.2.3
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Consider adding some variety in block size and shape to aid wayfinding.
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Where possible, avoid monotonous blocks that lack distinctiveness. Repetitive grids can feel confusing for people living with dementia.
Well-planned street grids (i.e., with suitable block sizes and a legible hierarchy of street types) are crucial to create a positive pedestrian experience. A well-connected street grid makes it easier to walk or roll to local destinations and navigate the neighbourhood.
Actions under this strategy:
1.2.4
A gently winding pedestrian street in Logroño, Spain. Photo: Isabel Garcia / Happy Cities
Create gently winding and connected streets
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Where longer blocks are unavoidable, creating gently winding streets. Winding blocks provide a sightline for better navigation and wayfinding.
1.2.5
Chicanes add curves in the road on a slow street in Singapore. Photo: Singapore Land Transport Authority
Design slow streets
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Design a network of connected, slow streets that offer safe, calm routes for walking and rolling. Where possible, set a default city-wide limit of 40 km/h, with further reduced speeds on designated slow streets.
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Implement slow zones (30 km/h) around key destinations or street corridors.
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Use traffic calming features (e.g speed bumps, curb extensions, chicanes) to ensure that cars drive slowly on local neighbourhood streets.
Age- and dementia-inclusive principles:
Legible: Clear and connected streets allow pedestrians to navigate the environment with ease
Distinct: Mixed-use areas provide diverse building forms and recognizable businesses to help navigation and wayfinding.