Program on the Environment

Pedestrianization is an increasingly popular approach to urban transportation and environmental planning. Meanwhile, Pike Place Market is one of the greatest and oldest farmers markets in the US, it was originally designed for pedestrians but is currently dominated by vehicles. The purpose of this study was to collect opinions about the idea of pedestrianizing Pike Place Market from workers at the market. to accomplish this task, I interviewed business owners and employees at the market, and utilize literature research. The results show interviewees overwhelmingly support the idea. Pedestrianization can provide numerous benefits, including benefits in economic; social; environmental; health; and more equitable society. However, implementing pedestrianization can be challenging. Barriers include opposition from residents and local merchants, cost recovery, and the lack of political support, etc. Despite these challenges, pedestrianization plays an important role in promoting a more sustainable and liveable city, policymakers will need to consider all the important factors and the needs of citizens in designing solutions for urban areas, not limited to Pike Place Market but to all areas in Seattle.