In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the future of Spanish Street, with a focus on making a pilot pedestrian-only configuration permanent. The conversation highlighted the mixed opinions from local business owners regarding the impact of this change on their operations. Some business owners reported an increase in foot traffic, while others expressed concerns about accessibility for vehicles.

One official, who has been a long-time pedestrian and bicycle commuter, emphasized the importance of the mobility plan, which aims to encourage visitors to park once and explore the area on foot. They noted that while some businesses have seen an uptick in visitors, the overall sentiment among business owners is divided.

The discussion also touched on logistical challenges related to implementing a mechanical gate for limited vehicle access, which some business owners suggested. Concerns were raised about the feasibility of maintaining such a system, including the need for staff oversight and potential malfunctions.

Traffic safety was a significant concern, particularly at the intersection of Cordova and Orange streets, where delivery trucks often block traffic. Officials acknowledged the need for a solution that balances pedestrian safety with business accessibility.

Data collected on pedestrian and vehicle counts was scrutinized, with one official expressing skepticism about its reliability due to variations in methodology and external factors like weather. They argued that the guiding documents for the city’s development support the proposed pedestrian-only configuration.

Ultimately, a motion was made to permanently designate the discussed section of Spanish Street as pedestrian-only, which passed with a majority vote despite some dissent. The decision reflects a broader trend towards prioritizing pedestrian access in urban planning, aligning with similar initiatives in other cities, such as Los Angeles' goal for a car-free Olympics in 2028.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore ways to improve signage and accessibility for local businesses, ensuring that the transition to a pedestrian-friendly environment considers the needs of all stakeholders involved.