Uploaded on 2014-10-20 by KarlaS

This panoramic photo portrays the usual commercial areas bordering the downtown part of the city while also belonging to this district. What is visible is the type of architecture one can find, and the obvious difference between one another; this was taken early in the morning, so the traffic is light and the streets are clean, but one can still people walking by doing early shopping, so this is quite a busy spot in the afternoon. There is also lack of parking, and all cars park by the sidewalk, even if it's a main street. Mostly old buildings and houses, some restored or remodeled to look as new. The lack of lamp posts would make it difficult to spend time in this area at night. What is invisible is the lack of urban planning, as the city grew without one. Sidewalks and pedestrian areas are very limited, almost as if built for drivers and car-users. There's no line for cyclists, making it difficult to maneuver the streets if you do own one. For a commercial area, it's not meant to make you stay a while, but to shop and go about your business quickly. How to make it more liveable? At first sight, broader sidewalks and cyclists lines. More resting spaces between shops or buildings would make the people want to stay and enjoy the city. Vegetation is always a plus, as it can also provide shade and climatic comfort. Also, lighting, for this is a very dark area during the night thanks to the lack of electrical posts, but if the area is well-lit then it can be active at night as well. [1]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/1413820859728078.jpg