Pedestrian Street Won't Happen With Suburban Zoning

"The issue came up Monday night, obliquely, at an event sponsored by the Charlotte chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The AIA is engaged in a study of the Central Avenue corridor. It's looking at physical issues, such as connectivity, walkability and open space, plus safety, image and economic vitality.

At the meeting, east Charlotte residents spoke with affection of their neighborhoods. They love the international diversity they experience daily.

What they don't love are the tattered, '60s- and '70s-vintage commercial buildings that house many of the interesting, ethnic businesses. And no wonder. The buildings were designed for a 20- to 30-year lifespan. They're Kleenex buildings -- designed to be throwaway.

But what will happen when they finally do get discarded?

Unfortunately, unless the city changes its zoning rules, any new buildings will probably look much like the old ones. They'll have the same car-oriented suburban layouts -- death to any hopes of strollability."