Design well-connected street networks at the human scale | ULI Building Healthy Places Toolkit

2 Design well-connected street networks at the human scale

Photo: Kimley-Horn

Design the street network with the pedestrian in mind: ensure good connectivity as well as a choice of routes for walking.
To maximize walkability, developments should favor shorter blocks—200 to 400 feet (60 to 120 meters)—with multiple intersections within developments.

Establish pedestrian paths to allow for a cut-through in the middle of longer blocks.
Reduce the amount of land devoted to parking to increase space for other pedestrian-oriented uses and activities. Leverage shared parking opportunities where possible.
Design blocks to minimize pedestrian exposure to surface parking lots and active driveways. For example, situate parking behind buildings and provide direct sidewalk access to building entrances and lobbies.