Numerous planning efforts have made recommendations for improving downtown streets from the 2013 Ignite High Point Master Plan to the 2017 Downtown Multi-modal Vision Plan and the Downtown Mixed-Use Area Plan. As stated in previous plans and earlier in this plan, creating compact multi-modal streets is critical to the long-term success of High Point’s vision, especially for downtown. Place-making is the new economic development. How a place presents itself - the feel and character – can make a difference in whether a business chooses to invest and locate in a place. Furthermore, more than ever people can choose where they live, and work, and the quality of place is a factor in determining their decision. This is especially true for young adults looking for a city that is walkable, bikeable, and drivable. The quality of streets will make a significant contribution to the sense-of-place in downtown. High Point’s commitment to creating great streets will likely determine downtown’s future.

Streets are going to play an important role in how downtown evolves. A master streetscape plan should consider the following:

• All streets are not created equal
  • Create a hierarchy of streets (e.g., “A”, “B” and “C”) and don’t compromise on the treatment of priority streets. These should be high-profile streets where the pedestrian experience, ground floor retail / commercial space, and fit and finish is most important (e.g. Main Street)

• Main Street must be a high-profile signature street
  • Slow is good – the idea is not to just move cars

• • It’s the primary street for many that visit High Point. It requires the highest fit and finish and should showcase High Point’s commitment to creating great streets

• Right-sizing streets will likely require reallocating space
  • Limit the number and width of lanes to what is necessary and reallocate space to pedestrian and bike facilities and space for trees

• Streets should include street trees, if there is space.

• On-street parking should be considered on all downtown streets

• Furnishings, wayfinding, and pedestrian-level lighting should be included in key areas and should reflect the character of the downtown district

• Improve the walkability of streets that connect downtown to adjacent neighborhoods
• • Walkability is more than a sidewalk. Buffers from vehicle traffic whether it’s a tree lawn or on-street parking makes it more comfortable and safer for pedestrians. Street trees, lighting and signage all contribute to walkability.

• • The core neighborhoods should benefit from their proximity to downtown’s many offerings including employment, service, and entertainment. Just as importantly, downtown should benefit from a surrounding residential base that feels connected to downtown and spends money there.