How to use free online tools to redesign your local streetscape.

Have an idea for redesigning a dangerous street in your neighborhood? Andy Boenau, writing in Urbanism Speakeasy, explains how you can easily illustrate your proposed changes using Google Maps and a tool called Streetmix.
Boenau writes, “The point isn't to do the civil engineering work for [planners and engineers], or analyze the intersection operations for them, or determine where exactly bus stops should be. There is value in technical expertise.” But residents can help planners get ideas and understand transportation needs from a hyperlocal perspective.
Boenau outlines the five steps to designing a street with Streetmix. After finding out your street’s width using Google Maps, you can plug that number into Streetmix and begin designing your dream street.
FULL STORY: Anyone Can Redesign a Street. Here’s How.

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This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
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Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
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