Redesigning city avenue a step in right direction

Architectural drawing of Luthuli Avenue.

Not long ago, annoying blaring noises from hooting and exhaust whistles of stationary vehicles were a common feature on Luthuli Avenue, Nairobi. Not to mention those of touts calling for passengers.

While the ordinary functions of a street are access, conduits for drainage and utility systems, that of public space and public place should not be subservient.

The pedestrianisation of Luthuli Avenue brings out the ‘living’ city and exhibits a people-oriented, as opposed to the car-oriented street design.

Today, the experience on Luthuli Avenue is distinct from other downtown Nairobi Central Business District streets. Its transformation not only creates a sense of safety, but one that is functional and efficient.

The street is breathing and inviting, with complete street furniture and greenery for relaxation and therapy. The well-paved pedestrian walkways have bollards demarcating it from the one-way transit lane. This has eliminated unnecessary on-street parking, and hence dealt with the pollution and blurred visibility.

The physical process of reclaiming this street itself lasted less than two months. Transformation of the street is expected to have far-reaching outcomes. This is against the backdrop of experiences in other spaces where similar projects have been undertaken such as Nairobi’s Mama Ngina Street.

Socially, such developments break systemic inequalities in cities; they serve to reiterate the place of human dignity, democracy and equity in transport planning. Economically, retail establishments become more vibrant and make increased sales as the environment becomes clean and conducive. A significant reduction in air pollution levels has also been a major outcome of such interventions.

The jellying of institutional commitment, political goodwill, support from the local retailers and coordination were the key determinants of this project. Worldwide, politicians have been a key fulcrum in transformation of cities.

Pedestrianisation of Luthuli Avenue demonstrates a practical and scalable approach for building sustainable communities.

- The writer, Rose Kirui, is a registered planner.