Small Changes, Big Impact

Small Changes, Big Impact: How Simple Street Design Can Transform Communities

Sometimes, the smallest changes can have the biggest impact. Around the world, cities are proving that simple, low-cost adjustments to street design can transform neighbourhoods into safer, more welcoming places for people. Let’s explore a few examples:

1. Pop-Up Parklets: Turning a parking space into a tiny park with plants and seating encourages people to pause, connect, and enjoy their surroundings. Example: Cities like San Francisco and Sydney have embraced parklets to give streets back to the people.
2. Temporary Bike Lanes: Adding a protected bike lane with painted lines or temporary bollards allows more people to ride safely and comfortably. Example: Melbourne trialled pop-up bike lanes during COVID-19, leading to more active travel.
3. Slow Speed Zones: Lowering speed limits to 30km/h makes streets safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. Example: Cities like Oslo and Barcelona have reduced traffic accidents by prioritising slower, people-friendly speeds.
4. Street Art and Murals: Creative designs on roads, intersections, or footpaths bring beauty and joy to everyday spaces while encouraging people to explore.
5. Tactical Urbanism: Simple tools like plants, cones, and paint can test street designs before permanent changes are made, allowing communities to see what works best.

Here in Hobart, these ideas can be applied in our local streets. Imagine pop-up parklets on Elizabeth Street, safer bike lanes connecting schools, or colourful crosswalks near community hubs.

Small changes add up. They make streets more welcoming, active, and connected. And best of all, they show what’s possible when we prioritise people.

Where would you like to see a small but powerful change in Hobart? Share your thoughts!