The Aspen Pedestrian Mall has been honored as one of the top public spaces in America by the American Planning Association.
Each year, the organization honors public spaces that provide opportunities for the community to interact while also facilitating economic growth. Aspen’s brick-paved walking mall was recognized for its trees and water channels, and for providing a family friendly interactive environment. The planning process for the promenade began in the 1960s, and has been a rare success story over time.
“We’ve lost tons of pedestrian malls,” said Michelle Stephens, the American Planning Association Colorado chapter president. “The automobile and our desire to have our drive through coffee has really - you know pedestrian malls have really struggled to be economically viable”
The award comes as Aspen works to redevelop the mall for the next 40 years.
