ABSTRACT
With the increased emphasis on green spaces and storm water management, local connections, including alleys, are becoming more of a focus in the hierarchy of urban grid connections. Seen as hidden gems, alleys and local streets consist of scale and enclosure not found along most arterials and avenues. Planning initiatives are including more emphasis on the enhancement of locals, including alleys, with the intention of encouraging the presence of more social places, green spaces, and fine art. Also, alleys often connect with block interiors and provide opportunities for a range of off-avenue functions, including modest parks and local cafes and bistros. In response to these opportunities, independent entities, including artists, are utilizing alleys as locations for a range of fine art works. Other initiatives continue to derive from guerrilla gardening and tactical urbanism. At the conclusion of a walk along a boulevard or avenue, alleys provide the close visual depth for points of interest and the subsequent potential for aesthetic moments, all positive contributions to the identity of urban connection contexts.
