What's happened
Several U.S. cities are converting one-way streets back to two-way to improve safety, boost local businesses, and enhance urban walkability. This trend follows historical patterns and recent successes in Louisville, Chattanooga, and Lynchburg, reversing decades of street design focused on vehicle speed and efficiency.
What's behind the headline?
The reversal of one-way streets to two-way is driven by a recognition that the original street layouts prioritized vehicle efficiency over pedestrian safety and neighborhood vitality. Experts like Dave Amos highlight that nearly all major streets in the U.S. started as two-way, with the shift to one-way driven by suburban migration and car-centric policies. The misconception that one-way streets are safer persists, but studies and real-world examples show they often increase conflict points and confusion, especially where streets intersect with different directions. Cities like Louisville and Chattanooga demonstrate that restoring two-way streets can revive local businesses and reconnect communities, counteracting decades of urban decay caused by street segregation. This trend signals a broader shift towards pedestrian-friendly, economically vibrant urban cores.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that cities like Louisville, Chattanooga, and Lynchburg are reversing street conversions to boost safety and economic activity, citing examples of neighborhood revitalization and increased business. AP News emphasizes the safety concerns linked to high-speed traffic on former one-way streets, noting that misperceptions about safety often favor one-way layouts. Both sources agree that the trend is part of a larger movement to prioritize walkability and community connectivity over vehicle throughput, with Louisville leading a significant project to restore streets cut off by 1970s urban planning decisions. The debate remains nuanced, with some local businesses initially worried about logistics, but most have adapted, recognizing the long-term benefits of street reconversion.
How we got here
In the 1970s, many U.S. cities converted major streets from two-way to one-way to facilitate faster vehicle movement, especially to serve industrial areas like RCA plants. Over time, these changes led to increased traffic speeds, safety concerns, and neighborhood disconnection. Recent urban planning shifts aim to restore street connectivity, improve safety, and revitalize local economies, as seen in Louisville, Chattanooga, and Lynchburg.
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Common question
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Why Are US Cities Reverting One-Way Streets Back to Two-Way?
Many US cities are reversing decades-old street designs by converting one-way streets back to two-way. This shift aims to improve safety, boost local businesses, and make urban areas more walkable. But what’s driving this change, and what does it mean for city life? Below, we explore the reasons behind these urban planning decisions and answer common questions about this trend.
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