Was at an event at the Matrix. Was quite surprised by how busy it was with out of towners coming in for the concerts.
One of my theories for Edmonton’s lack of vibrancy downtown is also because of our transportation system. I don’t have data to back it up, but I’d be fascinated to know, compared to other cities, what modes people use to get downtown, and then how long they spend moving from the end of their trip to their destination.
Like parked car to restaurant, train to office, bike parking to festival event, etc.
My sense is that in cities like Vancouver with way higher transit use, lots of people still come in from suburbs, but then get off the train and walk 5-10 minutes. Vs parking in a parkade and never stepping outside, or parking street/parking lot and walking 1-3mins in Edmonton.
Of course in winter, people want a shorter walk at the end of their trip. But I can’t help but think this hurts how busy downtown feels. Cause like others are saying, many good spots are often busy inside. But the streets are quiet. More transit and DT residents will both help a lot with this.
