A Modern-Day War for the Right to the Sidewalk and the Street
Cities grow because agglomerative forces pull people together through a combination of industry and firm presence. [1] Cities also attract people because of vibrant social, economic, and creative elements. [2] As a result, cities become labor markets [3] attracting all types of people to the city. Considering this, it is estimated that by the year 2050 68 percent of the global population will live in urban areas. [4] This growth and densification, while beneficial to labor markets, economic growth, and innovation, has and will produce negative externalities. In response to densifying urban areas that produce congestion, many local governments are developing strategies to decrease car dependence and provide safer streets to citizens. As a result, public policies are being implemented to promote complete streets, “vision zero” policies, and improved walkability. At the same time, the market is stimulating the development of innovative transportation technologies such as docked bik