Nova Scotia Main Streets Initiative
Recognize the importance of parking, cycling, and community transit.
Even on the most-pedestrian oriented streets, many visitors do not arrive on foot. Space must be allocated to people arriving by car, bike, and even transit, while still providing an engaging and active atmosphere that draws in visitors.
This parking lot behind shops in Wolfville contains about 70 parking spaces, with close access to both Main Street and the nearby trail network. The location of parking does not break up the continuous pedestrian experience of Main Street.
Parking takes up space, use it wisely.
Parking allows people to access destinations on Main Street. Parking allows businesses to load and receive deliveries. Parking allows people with reduced mobility to access their communities.
Parking allows people to access Main Streets from beyond walking or biking distance, allowing a town and its surrounding area to engage, mix, mingle, and build a sense of community.
However, parking takes up space.
Too much parking can detract from the experience of a Main Street.
Many businesses’ parking lots are sized to provide parking for their anticipated volume of customers. Neighbouring businesses often end up providing duplicate parking for customers who park once and walk to multiple destinations, resulting in an inefficient use of space.
Conveniently located longer-term parking (3+ hours) allows people to park once and enjoy all Main Street has to offer without having to worry about finding parking at each stop on one’s trip.
3-hour parking makes it easier to run multiple errands (Ladner, BC)
Many Nova Scotians would like to bike, but don’t feel safe.
Prominent bike racks on Main Street remind people biking is an option.
Many communities have trails for walking and cycling, but they tend to be for recreational use. There is also an opportunity to open Main Street for cycling, as a way to get around for day-to-day needs.
For many people in Nova Scotia, cycling is something that we would do more often if it felt safe to bike on the street.
Calming traffic, allocating road space for cycling, and providing bike racks are good steps for bike-friendly Main Streets. Physically separated bike lanes are also possible for Main Streets and such facilities are most effective in making cycling safe and enjoyable.
Intercommunity Transit Shuttle in Northern BC
Plan for present or future transit access.
There are a number of municipal and community transit services across Nova Scotia, ranging from frequent bus service to book-ahead shared taxis.
Having bus stops or waiting areas for community shuttles integrated into a Main Street makes for a pleasant transit experience, with the potential to boost ridership.
Approaches
On-Street Parking
Some on-street parking on Main Street is needed,
accessible parking and loading zones should be prioritized. On-street parking can also calm traffic.
Off-Street Parking
Additional parking capacity will likely be required on adjacent streets, and in parking lots. Parking should not separate storefronts from Main Street.
Maps and Signage
Wayfinding guides visitors between destinations and advertises points of interest worth the walk.
Cycling Infrastrucutre
Protected or painted lanes give cyclists a place to ride on the street. Bike racks give cyclists a place to park and show others cycling is an option.
Community Shuttles
Many small communities are close, but not within walking distance. Community shuttle services can bridge the gap between these communities.
Shared Mobility Options
Car-shares, bike-shares, scooters, and other shared mobility give people more options.