Turning Ellicott City's Main Street into a Pedestrian Street?

I've been recently thinking about the concept of turning Ellicott City's Historic Main Street into a pedestrian-only zone, removing vehicles from the corridor. The thought came into my mind after going to Ellicott City's MusicFest this past weekend, and realizing how congested the downtown area becomes when cars and pedestrians fight for space. This got me thinking, wouldn't sectioning off this main artery for pedestrians, increase visitors and enhance the Ellicott City experience?

Ellicott City's Main Street

This concept has been implemented in many cities across the United States, like Cumberland in Western Maryland, and New York's Ithaca in the Finger Lakes. Those communities are now celebrated for their pedestrian-friendly atmospheres; something that E.C. is certainly lacking. Whenever I travel to Main Street, the feeling of being taken back in time quickly disappears when traffic snarls up Maryland's Route 144. During a normal day, parking usually isn't too much of an issue because of the city's many free visitor parking lots. However, when walking down Main Street, you are mere inches away from cars much of the time, causing a sense of claustrophobia and danger. So I went to my Google Maps, and created a new plan for my version of the new Ellicott City.


My proposed plan includes a new bypass for Historic Ellicott City, by rerouting traffic on a new road that I've coined "Ellicott City Parkway". This new parkway would leave old Frederick Road in Oella, and cross the Patapsco River undercutting south of Ellicott City. The new road would intersect all of the major roads on the south side: College Avenue, New Cut Road and Old Columbia Pike. The bypass would terminate and join Rogers Avenue at the intersection of old Frederick Road/Main Street on the west side. Manahan Drive is also extended to intersect the new bypass to increase connectivity. I've also added a new bikeway/path and a park on this new road in order to increase access to greenspace and the historic district.

A design for Ithaca's Pedestrian Mall.

For the pedestrian zone, Main Street would be sectioned off from Old Columbia Pike to the west end, and Maryland Avenue to the east end. All of Main Street from those two points, and Tiber Alley would be only used by pedestrians and authorized vehicles. This new zone would be the perfect place for entertainers (like that Bubble Blowing guy that's always there, ghost tours, festivals, and socializing). Old Columbia Pike and Main Street could also include a drop off zone area at the curve.
Of course this plan would require extensive work, and might not even be allowed due to historic conditions under the historic district and the Historic National Road (MD 144). Either way, it is worth thinking about how we can make Ellicott City more pedestrian and biker friendly.

Adventure 1: Morning in Station North and First Time at Red Emma's

For my first adventure for Community in America (AMST 380), I wanted to experience and explore Station North during the morning hours. In my experience, the morning is always a great way to get a true feel for a particular location when everyone is just beginning to get on with their day.

On the cold winter morning of February 19, I wandered about the neighborhood scoping out landmarks that I know of, seeking out new changes since the last time I passed through. I was very impressed by the changes I observed. In particular, I was happy to see the restoration of The Centre theatre under way with the new vintage sign already up. I can already imagine how great North Avenue is going to look with the additions of the historic theaters of Parkway and Centre! Even though the day was bitterly cold, the sun was shining brightly on the beautifully unique facades of the boulevard.

Interior of Red Emma's in Station North.

I've heard a lot about Red Emma's from friends of mine, but I never got a clear sense of their experience. Nevertheless, I have been wanting to check it out since the business moved into the historic North Avenue Market building from their old location in Mount Vernon. As I was walking up to the door, I took a survey of the locals. There is definitely diversity when it comes to Station North, but I think it could also be characterized by extremes. On one end you have your typical Baltimore mix of working class people and the occasional homeless individual, but on the other end you have the obvious art student (who may or may not have a trust fund, and may or may not be from here). Not that there's anything wrong with that, but I think it's important to note the differences especially in a changing neighborhood like Station North.

My delicious Red Emma's coffee!

Overall, Red Emma's turned out to be a great experience! As soon as I stepped in, I immediately fell in love with the interior design of the space. I ordered a coffee with the Colombian blend, and it really hit the spot after being out in the cold. Compared to other local coffee places like Dooby's and Donna's, Red Emma's was a lot friendlier, cheaper, and had less of an attitude. Could this be because they moved to Station North where everything seems to be more laid back and less segregated than other parts of Baltimore? Maybe, maybe not. After I got my coffee, I browsed through their interesting book collection, and then found a table by the window and studied for a bit. As my adventure came to a close, I realized that Red Emma's provides a sanctuary in the middle of the city, of both calmness and equality. Unlike national chains, everyone is allowed to enter to enjoy the experience.