I Pedestrian Count Summary 1. II. Comparisons of Previous Years Data 3. III. Exhibits and Projections 5

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2 Table of Contents Pedestrian Count Summary 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc. I Pedestrian Count Summary 1 II. Comparisons of Previous Years Data 3 III. Exhibits and Projections 5 List of Figures Pedestrian County Summary 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Figure 1: 2010 Pedestrian Count 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 5 Figure 2: 2010 Pedestrian Count 11:00 am 2:00 pm 6 Figure 3: 2010 Pedestrian Count 6:00 pm 8:00 pm 7 Figure 4: 2010 Pedestrian Count Percent Change from 2008 and Pedestrian Count Summary 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc. I Pedestrian Count Summary 1 II. Comparisons of Previous Years Data 3 III. Exhibits and Projections 5 List of Figures Pedestrian County Summary 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Figure 1: 2009 Pedestrian Count 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 5 Figure 2: 2009 Pedestrian Count 11:00 am 2:00 pm 6 Figure 3: 2009 Pedestrian Count 6:00 pm 8:00 pm 7 Figure 4: 2009 Pedestrian Count Percent Change from Pedestrian Count Summary 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc. I Pedestrian Count Summary 1 II. Comparisons of 2007 Versus 2008 Data 3 III. Exhibits and Projections 5 i

3 Table of Contents List of Tables Pedestrian Count Summary 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Table 1: Pedestrian County Summary 1 Table 2: Comparison of Hourly Data 3 List of Figures Pedestrian Count Summary 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Figure 1: 2008 Pedestrian County 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm 4 Figure 2: 2008 Pedestrian County 11:00 am - 2:00 pm 5 Figure 3: 2008 Pedestrian County 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 6 Figure 4: 2008 Pedestrian County Percent Change from Pedestrian Count Summary 2007, Downtown Cincinnati Inc. I. Introduction 1 II. Pedestrian Counts 2 III. Comparisons 5 IV. Projections 6 List of Tables Pedestrian Count Summary, Downtown Cincinnati Inc Table 1: Pedestrian Count Summary 2 List of Tables Pedestrian Count Summary, Downtown Cincinnati Inc Figure 1: Downtown Cincinnati Pedestrian Count Summary, Figure 2: Exhibit of Downtown Cincinnati Pedestrian Count Summary, ii

4 Pedestrian Count Summary 2010 Update Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Acknowledgements Consultant Team Brandstetter Carroll Inc. 424 East Fourth Street Cincinnati, Ohio (513) VOICE (800) (513) FAX Benjamin E. Brandstetter, P.E. Engineer s Project No January, 2011 iii

5 Pedestrian Count Summary 2010 Update Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Executive Summary For the past four years Brandstetter Carroll Inc. has provided a pedestrian count study of selected intersections for Downtown Cincinnati Inc. (DCI). The initial years provided a baseline of information and helped drive the selection of intersections for long term study. The past three years have provided an opportunity to view the changes in pedestrian activity through a very small, but powerful, lens. Some results have been intuitive and expected, while other results have shown areas of growth which were not expected. The following is a summary of the peak hourly counts at the 12 intersections from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm: 8 th and Elm th and Vine 2,026 4 th and Plum th and Walnut 1,562 Vine and Court 1,315 4 th and Walnut 2,703 9 th and Main th and Race 1,051 7 th and Main th and Vine 2,506 8 th and Sycamore 334 Fountain Square 2,242 The following is a summary of the peak hourly counts at five intersections from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm: 4 th and Plum th and Vine th and Elm th and Vine th and Walnut 778 The counts included in this study were obtained in October and November of 2010 over a four week period. Overall, the data for 2010 shows a slight decrease in pedestrian activity. As in previous years, the year-over-year growth/decline has been spread over multiple locations. Some intersections showed growth, while others showed a decline. Fountain Square and 5 th & Vine Street again led the growth of pedestrian activity within the City. iv

6 2010 Pedestrian Count Summary I Pedestrian Count Summary In 2010 (October 12 through November 10), Brandstetter Carroll Inc. obtained pedestrian counts from the 11 intersections selected in the previous studies. Counts were taken on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. An experienced team of two observers completed the counts between 11:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. In addition, the same five intersections that were selected for evening counts (6:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.) in 2008 were completed in The raw data is summarized in Table 1 below. Table 1: Pedestrian Count Summary Time Interval 8th & Elm Plum Vine & Court 9th & Main 7th & Main 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut Walnut Race 5th & Vine Fountain Square 8th & Sycamor 11:00 to 11: :15 to 11: :30 to 11: :45 to 12: Subtotal 11:00 to 12:00 am :00 to 12: :15 to 12: :30 to 12: :45 to 1: Subtotal 12:00 to 1:00 pm :00 to 1: :15 to 1: :30 to 1: :45 to 2: Subtotal 1:00 to 2:00 pm Total from 11:00 to 2:00 pm Time Interval Plum 5th & Vine 5th & Elm 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut 6:00 to 6:15 pm :15 to 6:30 pm :30 to 6:45 pm :45 to 7:00 pm Subtotal 6:00 to 7:00 pm Pedestrian Count Summary, 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 1

7 2010 Pedestrian Count Summary Time Interval 8th & Elm Plum Vine & Court 9th & Main 7th & Main 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut Walnut Race 5th & Vine Fountain Square 8th & Sycamor 11:00 to 11: :15 to 11: :30 to 11: :45 to 12: Subtotal 11:00 to 12:00 am :00 to 12: :15 to 12: :30 to 12: :45 to 1: Subtotal 12:00 to 1:00 pm :00 to 1: :15 to 1: :30 to 1: :45 to 2: Subtotal 1:00 to 2:00 pm Total from 11:00 to 2:00 pm The data in Table 1 is provided in 15-minute intervals, as was the data in previous years studies. This information was summarized based upon the number of pedestrians per hour per intersection from 11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m., 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 2

8 Comparisons of Previous Years Data II. Comparisons of Previous Years Data A comparison of the hourly data from 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2010 is summarized in Table 2. The 2010 data shows much more of a mixed picture, versus the comparisons that were analyzed in previous years. The pedestrian volume on the whole for the entire city essentially went back to 2008 levels. The growth achieved from 2008 to 2009 was given back through a 5% decrease in volume in the daytime counts. The intersections showing significant drops in volume happen to be on the northern portion of the CBD along 7th and 9th Streets. These intersections still have comparatively high volumes of pedestrians when viewed against other areas of downtown. In addition, large pedestrian generators in this part of town have closed to allow for an adaptive reuse of the facilities. Further analysis taken in future years will provide an opportunity to see how the change in use has affected (either positively or negatively) on the pedestrian volumes in this part of town. The area around Fountain Square continues to show an increase in pedestrian volume. Growth at these intersections has been consistent since 2008 when the Fountain Square redevelopment project was completed. Even though there has been consistent growth, this area still has not surpassed the volume present on 4th Street at Walnut Street proved to be a year of decline due in part to the closure of restaurants. However, next year will present an interesting analysis with the opening the Great American Tower at 4th Street and Main Street. Tracking the growth pattern as a result of the opening of new office space has the opportunity to change the underlying patterns of downtown daytime workers. In future years, the opening of the casino and new parking facilities will also have an impact on the volume and patterns of pedestrians downtown. The closure of surface parking at Broadway Commons has already forced individuals and companies to reexamine how their workforce interacts with the urban core. This issue will continue to be in flux as the City redefines the northeastern portion of the CBD with a new hotel, parking facility, and casino. The evening counts completed as part of this study showed a significant decrease in the volume of pedestrians. Each intersection had declining volumes (except for 4th and Plum Street) and 6th Street and Vine Street showed nearly a 50% decline in activity. No one particular external factor can be attributed to this across the board decrease. On the whole, the 2010 volumes were more consistent with the 2008 volumes, with the exception of 6th Street and Vine Street. A review of this activity in the future years once build-out of adaptive reuses has been completed will most likely show a vastly different picture. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 3

9 Comparisons of Previous Years Data Table 2: Comparison of Hourly Data 8th & Elm Plum Vine & Court 9th & Main 7th & Main Daytime Counts 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut Walnut Race 5th & Vine Fountain Square Daytime Totals 4th& Plum 5th & Vine Evening Counts 5th & Elm 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut 2010 Counts 2010 Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-7: :00-2: :00-8: Totals Totals Counts 2009 Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-7: :00-2: :00-8: Totals Totals Comparison of 2009 versus 2010 data Comparison of 2009 versus 2010 data 11:00-12:00 +/ % +/ % 2.6% 2.8% -8.8% -27.1% -5.4% -14.0% -15.5% -4.7% 3.9% 29.8% -3.9% 12:00-1:00 +/ :00-7:00 +/ % +/- -3.9% 28.3% 0.4% -19.6% -34.3% -1.7% -5.3% -12.6% -3.3% 11.0% 9.5% -4.1% % +/- -9.0% -18.4% -26.9% -3.0% -31.7% 1:00-2:00 +/ :00-8:00 +/ % +/- 10.8% -22.5% 7.1% -17.4% -26.3% -3.7% -19.7% -18.8% 3.7% 8.6% -22.9% -10.6% % +/- 50.0% -23.9% -56.6% -11.0% -58.4% Totals +/ Totals +/ Totals % +/- -2.3% 5.6% 2.9% -15.9% -29.8% -3.2% -12.2% -15.2% -1.7% 8.3% 5.2% -5.9% Totals % +/- 9.0% -20.8% -40.3% -6.5% -46.3% 2008 Counts 2008 Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-7: :00-2: :00-8: Totals Totals Comparison of 2008 versus 2009 data Comparison of 2008 versus 2009 data 11:00-12:00 +/ % +/- 15.6% -28.6% 22.0% 7.5% 20.3% -11.6% 2.3% -0.8% 0.6% 3.7% 1.0% 2.5% 12:00-1:00 +/ :00-7:00 +/ % +/- 2.0% -37.4% 8.5% 2.8% -4.7% -10.6% 0.2% -6.8% -10.7% 10.5% 12.5% -1.7% % +/- 19.8% 4.1% 101.2% 7.7% 14.6% 1:00-2:00 +/ :00-8:00 +/ % +/- 30.3% -16.4% 22.4% -1.3% -1.5% -6.6% 9.0% 6.7% -16.6% 5.2% 21.4% 4.2% % +/- 72.5% 12.2% 201.1% 26.9% 22.0% Totals +/ Totals +/ Totals % +/- 12.9% -29.5% 15.9% 2.8% 2.6% -9.7% 3.3% -1.6% -9.8% 6.9% 11.5% 1.1% Totals % +/- 32.1% 7.5% 136.6% 15.3% 18.5% 2007 Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-2: Totals Comparison of 2007 versus 2008 data 11:00-12:00 +/ % +/- 7.8% -0.3% 2.2% 7.2% -20.0% 30.3% -0.1% 9.5% -12.7% 0.8% 12:00-1:00 +/ % +/- 6.3% 3.6% 10.0% 25.1% 13.9% 40.0% -1.2% 27.6% -10.7% -25.5% 1:00-2:00 +/ % +/ % 34.1% -5.0% 29.4% 0.1% 22.0% 4.2% -0.7% -5.9% -14.3% Totals +/ Totals % +/- -6.9% 9.0% -3.9% 20.9% -0.9% 31.9% 0.4% 13.8% -9.8% -15.8% Comparison of 2007 versus 2009 data 11:00-12:00 +/ % +/- 24.6% -28.8% 24.7% 15.2% -3.8% 15.3% 2.2% 8.6% -12.2% 4.5% 12:00-1:00 +/ % +/- 8.4% -35.1% 19.4% 28.6% 8.6% 25.2% -1.0% 19.0% -20.2% -17.7% 1:00-2:00 +/ % +/ % 12.2% 16.3% 27.7% -1.4% 13.9% 13.5% 5.9% -21.5% -9.8% Totals +/ Totals % +/- 5.1% -23.2% 11.4% 24.3% 1.7% 19.2% 3.7% 12.0% -18.6% -10.0% Comparison of 2007 versus 2010 data 2008 versus :00-12:00 +/ % +/- 11.0% -27.0% 28.3% 5.1% -29.9% 9.0% -12.1% -8.2% -16.3% 8.6% 31.0% -1.5% 12:00-1:00 +/ % +/- 4.2% -16.7% 19.9% 3.4% -28.6% 23.1% -6.2% 4.0% -22.9% -8.7% 23.3% -5.7% 1:00-2:00 +/ % +/- -6.4% -13.0% 24.6% 5.4% -27.3% 9.6% -8.9% -14.0% -18.6% -2.1% -6.5% -6.9% Totals +/ Totals % +/- 5.1% -23.2% 11.4% 24.3% 1.7% 19.2% 3.7% 12.0% -18.6% -10.0% 17.3% 1.1% Pedestrian Count Summary, 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 4

10 Exhibits and Projections III. Exhibits and Projections It is recognized that projections of pedestrian traffic are important to the DCI s Stakeholders. The actual pedestrian volume in the future will be heavily dependent upon market forces, the economy, and the type and density of future development. Figure 1: 2010 Pedestrian Count 12:00 pm 1:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 5

11 Exhibits and Projections Figure 2: 2010 Pedestrian Count 11:00 am 2:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 6

12 Exhibits and Projections Figure 3: 2010 Pedestrian Count 6:00 pm 8:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 7

13 Figure 4: 2010 Pedestrian Count Percent Change from 2009 Pedestrian Count Summary, 2010 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 8

14 Pedestrian Count Summary 2009 Update Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Acknowledgements Consultant Team Brandstetter Carroll Inc. 424 East Fourth Street Cincinnati, Ohio (513) VOICE (800) (513) FAX Benjamin E. Brandstetter, P.E. Engineer s Project No January 15, 2010 i

15 Pedestrian Count Summary 2009 Update Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Executive Summary Downtown Cincinnati Inc. (DCI) commissioned Brandstetter Carroll Inc. to provide an update to the 2008 Pedestrian Count Study that was completed at 11 key intersections within the Central Business District. In addition, evening counts were performed for the second time this year at five locations. This information is valuable to DCI because they receive many requests from stakeholders who are seeking to expand, relocate, or open new businesses. This information provides business owners with an idea of the pedestrian traffic that can be expected in varying parts of the City. The following is a summary of the peak hourly counts at the ten intersections from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm: 8 th and Elm th and Vine 2,060 4 th and Plum th and Walnut 1,649 Vine and Court 1,310 4 th and Walnut 3,091 9 th and Main 1,200 4 th and Race 1,087 7 th and Main 1,293 5 th and Vine 2,257 Fountain Square 2,047 The following is a summary of the peak hourly counts at five intersections from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm: 4 th and Plum th and Vine 1,204 5 th and Elm th and Vine th and Walnut 1,139 The counts included in this study were obtained in October and November of 2009 over a four week period. Overall, the data shows a consistent long term increase in pedestrian activity over the course of the past two years. The increases are distributed across nearly all sectors of downtown. ii

16 2009 Pedestrian Count Summary I Pedestrian Count Summary In 2009 (October 13 through November 17), Brandstetter Carroll Inc. obtained pedestrian counts from the 11 intersections selected in the previous studies. Counts were taken on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. An experienced team of two observers completed the counts between 11:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. In addition, the same five intersections that were selected for evening counts (6:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.) in 2008 were completed in The raw data is summarized in Table 1 below. The pedestrian counts at 4 th and Plum were taken for a second time due to the unexpected decrease from the initial counts. The data in the table is from counts taken on December 15 th, Table 3: Pedestrian Count Summary Time Interval 8th & Elm Plum Vine & Court 9th & Main 7th & Main 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut Walnut Race 5th & Vine Fountain Square 11:00 to 11: :15 to 11: :30 to 11: :45 to 12: Subtotal 11:00 to 12:00 am :00 to 12: :15 to 12: :30 to 12: :45 to 1: Subtotal 12:00 to 1:00 pm :00 to 1: :15 to 1: :30 to 1: :45 to 2: Subtotal 1:00 to 2:00 pm Total from 11:00 to 2:00 pm Time Interval Plum 5th & Vine 5th & Elm 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut 6:00 to 6:15 pm :15 to 6:30 pm :30 to 6:45 pm :45 to 7:00 pm Subtotal 6:00 to 7:00 pm :00 to 7:15 pm :15 to 7:30 pm :30 to 7:45 pm :45 to 8:00 pm Subtotal 7:00 to 8:00 pm Total from 6:00 to 8:00 pm Pedestrian Count Summary, 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 1

17 2009 Pedestrian Count Summary The data in Table 1 is provided in 15-minute intervals, as was the data in previous years studies. This information was summarized based upon the number of pedestrians per hour per intersection from 11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m., 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. As may be expected, the Central Business District continues to have strong pedestrian traffic, with the area around the courthouse and county offices increasing in pedestrian traffic as well. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 2

18 Comparisons of Previous Years Data II. Comparisons of Previous Years Data A comparison of the hourly data from 2007, 2008, and 2009 is summarized in Table 2. On the whole, the study is showing that there is continued increase in the volumes downtown both during the daytime and evening hours. The long term trend from 2007 through 2009 is showing a net increase in pedestrian activity, except for three locations. The positive gains that are seen in the long term trend are in locations in which recent public and private investment is actively being made. The 11.5% gain at Fountain Square in one year shows that the improvements made in this vicinity are driving people to this location. The evening count comparison from 2008 to 2009 is encouraging due to the volume of increase which took place. Each intersection that was counted saw an increase year over year. The consistency of the increase across the board shows that more people are choosing to spend time downtown after business hours. The localized decreases in volume can be attributed to certain factors which have occurred over the past few years. The decrease at the 7th and Vine location is most likely a result of the closing of Sully s and other restaurants in this area. The decrease from 2008 to 2009 is better understood when put in the long term context of comparing 2007 to The 2 year comparison actually shows a long term gain. This trend will be better understood when data from 2010 is included in the analysis. The 4th and Race intersection and 5th and Vine intersection decreases can be attributed to the fact that the 2007 counts were skewed higher because of the closure of Fountain Square. Many pedestrians likely bypassed the Fountain Square area and instead used Race and/or Vine Street. In addition, the continued increase in vacancy for Tower Place is driving less people to these intersections. The overall volume of pedestrians during the mid-day counting period in all of downtown continued to increase from 2008 to To continue having consistent growth of this key indicator shows that the strength of downtown can continue to grow, even in a shrinking economic environment. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 3

19 Comparisons of Previous Years Data Table 4: Comparison of Hourly Data Daytime Counts Evening Counts 8th & Vine & 9th & 7th & 7th & 6th & 5th & Founta 4th& 5th & 5th & 7th & 6th & 2009 Counts 2009 Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-7: :00-2: :00-8: Totals Totals Counts 2008 Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-7: :00-2: :00-8: Totals Totals Comparison of 2008 versus 2009 data Comparison of 2008 versus 2009 data 11:00-12:00 +/ % +/- 15.6% -28.6% 22.0% 7.5% 20.3% -11.6% 2.3% -0.8% 0.6% 3.7% 1.0% 12:00-1:00 +/ :00-7:00 +/ % +/- 2.0% -37.4% 8.5% 2.8% -4.7% -10.6% 0.2% -6.8% -10.7% 10.5% 12.5% % +/- 19.8% 4.1% 101.2% 7.7% 14.6% 1:00-2:00 +/ :00-8:00 +/ % +/- 30.3% -16.4% 22.4% -1.3% -1.5% -6.6% 9.0% 6.7% -16.6% 5.2% 21.4% % +/- 72.5% 12.2% 201.1% 26.9% 22.0% Totals +/ Totals +/ Totals % +/- 12.9% -29.5% 15.9% 2.8% 2.6% -9.7% 3.3% -1.6% -9.8% 6.9% 11.5% Totals % % 7.5% 136.6% 15.3% 18.5% 2007 Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-2: Totals Comparison of 2007 versus 2008 data 11:00-12:00 +/ % +/- 7.8% -0.3% 2.2% 7.2% -20.0% 30.3% -0.1% 9.5% -12.7% 0.8% 12:00-1:00 +/ % +/- 6.3% 3.6% 10.0% 25.1% 13.9% 40.0% -1.2% 27.6% -10.7% -25.5% 1:00-2:00 +/ % +/ % 34.1% -5.0% 29.4% 0.1% 22.0% 4.2% -0.7% -5.9% -14.3% Totals +/ Totals % +/- -6.9% 9.0% -3.9% 20.9% -0.9% 31.9% 0.4% 13.8% -9.8% -15.8% Comparison of 2007 versus 2009 data 11:00-12:00 +/ % +/- 24.6% -28.8% 24.7% 15.2% -3.8% 15.3% 2.2% 8.6% -12.2% 4.5% 12:00-1:00 +/ % +/- 8.4% -35.1% 19.4% 28.6% 8.6% 25.2% -1.0% 19.0% -20.2% -17.7% 1:00-2:00 +/ % +/ % 12.2% 16.3% 27.7% -1.4% 13.9% 13.5% 5.9% -21.5% -9.8% Totals +/ Totals % +/- 5.1% -23.2% 11.4% 24.3% 1.7% 19.2% 3.7% 12.0% -18.6% -10.0% Pedestrian Count Summary, 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 4

20 Exhibits and Projections III. Exhibits and Projections It is recognized that projections of pedestrian traffic are important to the DCI s Stakeholders. The actual pedestrian volume in the future will be heavily dependent upon market forces, the economy, and the type and density of future development. Figure 5: 2009 Pedestrian Count 12:00 pm 1:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 5

21 Exhibits and Projections Figure 6: 2009 Pedestrian Count 11:00 am 2:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 6

22 Exhibits and Projections Figure 7: 2009 Pedestrian Count 6:00 pm 8:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 7

23 Exhibits and Projections Figure 8: 2009 Pedestrian Count Percent Change from 2008 Pedestrian Count Summary, 2009 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 8

24 Pedestrian Count Summary 2008 Update Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Acknowledgements Consultant Team Brandstetter Carroll Inc. 424 East Fourth Street Cincinnati, Ohio (513) VOICE (800) (513) FAX Benjamin E. Brandstetter, P.E. William J. Lawall, III, P.E. Engineer s Project No January 6, 2009 Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio i

25 Pedestrian Count Summary 2008 Update Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Executive Summary Downtown Cincinnati Inc. (DCI) commissioned Brandstetter Carroll Inc. to provide an update to the 2007 Pedestrian Count Study that was completed at ten key intersections within the Central Business District. In addition, evening counts were performed for the first time this year at five locations. This information is valuable to DCI because they receive many requests from stakeholders who are seeking to expand, relocate, or open new businesses. This information provides business owners with an idea of the pedestrian traffic that can be expected in varying parts of the City. The following is a summary of the peak hourly counts at the ten intersections from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm: 8 th and Elm th and Vine 2,304 4 th and Plum th and Walnut 1,646 Vine and Court 1,207 4 th and Walnut 3,316 9 th and Main 1,167 4 th and Race 1,217 7 th and Main 1,357 5 th and Vine 1,819 The following is a summary of the peak hourly counts at five intersections from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm: 4 th and Plum th and Vine 1,157 5 th and Elm th and Vine th and Walnut 994 The counts included in this study were obtained in October and November of 2008 over a four week period. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio ii

26 2008 Pedestrian Count Summary I Pedestrian Count Summary In 2008 (October 21 through November 20), Brandstetter Carroll Inc. obtained pedestrian counts from the ten intersections selected for the 2007 study. Counts were taken on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. An experienced team of two observers completed the counts between 11:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. In addition, five intersections were selected for evening counts (6:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.) in The raw data is summarized in Table 1 below. The 5 th and Vine and Fountain Square counts were conducted on December 17 th and 18 th. The initial counts taken at 5 th and Vine showed a large decrease in volume. Because this decrease was unexpected due to the recent development in the area, counts were completed again. The result of these counts is shown below and discussion is available in the next section of the report. Table 5: Pedestrian Count Summary Time Interval 8th & Elm Plum Vine & Court 9th & Main 7th & Main 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut Walnut Race 5th & Fountain Vine Square 11:00 to 11: :15 to 11: :30 to 11: :45 to 12: Subtotal 11:00 to 12:00am ,358 1,177 1, ,469 1,354 12:00 to 12: :15 to 12: :30 to 12: :45 to 1: Subtotal 12:00 to 1:00pm ,207 1,167 1,357 2,304 1,646 3,316 1,217 2,043 1,819 1:00 to 1: :15 to 1: :30 to 1: :45 to 2: Subtotal 1:00 to 2: ,522 1,126 1, ,501 1,239 Total from 11:00 to 1,022 1,256 2,627 2,871 3,062 5,184 3,949 7,200 2,686 5,013 4,412 Time Interval Plum 5th & Vine 5th & Elm 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut 6:00 to 6: :15 to 6: :30 to 6: :45 to 7: Subtotal 6:00 to 7: , :00 to 7: :15 to 7: :30 to 7: :45 to 8: Subtotal 7:00 to 8: ,124 Total from 6:00 to 8: , ,113 2,118 Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 1

27 2008 Pedestrian Count Summary The data in Table 1 is provided in 15-minute intervals, as was the data for This information was summarized based upon the number of pedestrians per hour per intersection from 11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m., 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. As may be expected, the Central Business District continues to have strong pedestrian traffic, with the area around the courthouse and county offices increasing in pedestrian traffic as well. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 2

28 Comparisons of 2007 Versus 2008 Data II. Comparisons of 2007 Versus 2008 Data A comparison of the hourly data from 2007 with that of 2008 is summarized in Table 2. Table 6: Comparison of Hourly Data 8th & Elm Plum Vine & Court 9th & Main 7th & Main 7th & Vine 6th & Walnut Walnut Race 5th & Vine 2008 Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-2: Totals Counts 11:00-12: :00-1: :00-2: Totals :00-12:00 difference % change 7.7% -0.3% 2.2% 7.2% -20.0% 30.3% -0.1% 9.5% -12.7% 0.8% 12:00-1:00 difference % change 6.3% 3.6% 10.0% 25.1% 13.9% 40.5% -1.2% 27.6% -10.7% -25.5% 1:00-2:00 difference % change -35.1% 34.1% -26.7% 29.4% 0.1% 22.0% 4.2% -0.7% -5.9% -14.3% Totals difference Totals % change -7.0% 9.0% -3.9% 20.9% -0.9% 31.9% 0.4% 13.8% -9.8% -15.5% Using the above data counts, the total pedestrian counts for the entire downtown area remained relatively constant. While there were some decreases in some locations (5th & Vine most notably), there were corresponding increases in other locations (9th & Main, 7th & Vine). It is surmised that the decrease at 5th & Vine is due to the possibility that pedestrians are now able to bypass the intersection and use Fountain Square, whereas last year the Fountain Square was under reconstruction and all pedestrian traffic had to use the intersection of 5 th and Vine. The counts taken at Fountain Square were recorded in the northeast quadrant of the square. Even though 5 th and Vine had an overall net decrease, the high volume recorded for Fountain Square shows that more pedestrians are using these areas now than in No counts are available before reconstruction of the Square took place for comparison purposes. The area around the county courthouse and offices (9th & Main) is showing increasing pedestrian traffic, with only minor variations at most other locations. In the current economic climate, keeping the total pedestrian counts the same as last year is a testament to the strength of the businesses downtown. The total volume of daytime pedestrians in 2008 was while the total volume in 2007 was 33,568. The slight increase only shows that, even with localized differences, the total volume of pedestrian traffic remains strong. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 3

29 Exhibits and Projections III. Exhibits and Projections It is recognized that projections of pedestrian traffic are important to the DCI s Stakeholders. The actual pedestrian volume in the future will be heavily dependent upon market forces, the economy, and the type and density of future development. Barring any unforeseen economic catastrophes, Brandstetter Carroll Inc. anticipates that pedestrian traffic counts will remain on par with current levels, and will actually increase when the economic climate improves. Figure 9: 2008 Pedestrian Count 12:00 pm 1:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 4

30 Exhibits and Projections Figure 10: 2008 Pedestrian Count 11:00 am 2:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 5

31 Exhibits and Projections Figure 11: 2008 Pedestrian Count 6:00 pm 8:00 pm *Estimated counts are interpolated from actual counts. Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 6

32 Exhibits and Projections Figure 12: 2008 Pedestrian Count Percent Change from 2007 Pedestrian Count Summary, 2008 Update, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 7

33 Acknowledgements Pedestrian Count Summary Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Cincinnati, Ohio Consultant Team Brandstetter Carroll Inc. 424 East Fourth Street Cincinnati, Ohio (513) VOICE (800) (513) FAX Bruce G. Brandstetter, P.E. Benjamin E. Brandstetter, P.E. Engineer s Project No December 26, 2007 i

34 Pedestrian Count Summary Downtown Cincinnati Inc. Executive Summary Downtown Cincinnati Inc. commissioned Brandstetter Carroll Inc. to provide pedestrian count data at ten key intersections in the Central Business District. DCI receives many requests from its stakeholders seeking to expand, relocate or open new businesses. This is part of DCI s mission to market Downtown Cincinnati as a place to work, live and play. The following is a summary of the peak hourly counts at the ten intersections from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm: 8 th and Elm th and Vine 1,646 4 th and Plum th and Walnut 1,666 Vine and Court 1,097 4 th and Walnut 2,598 9 th and Main th and Race 1,363 7 th and Main 1,191 5 th and Vine 2,744 The counts included in this study were obtained in October 2007 over a three week period. In the course of investigating what other cities have done with their pedestrian count information, it was noted that the more progressive cities update their counts on an annual basis. This is another tool in evaluating the impact of changes. It can measure the success of programs and improvements. A comparison of similar business district locations from other cities shows that the highest pedestrian volume locations in Cincinnati are similar to the highest pedestrian volume locations in cities such as Philadelphia and Denver. However, the volumes taken further from the core of the City begin to drop faster than other comparable cities. ii

35 Introduction I. Introduction Downtown Cincinnati Inc. is committed to building a dynamic metropolitan center valued as the Heart of the Region. DCI s efforts to fulfill this mission includes working to provide services to its Stakeholders, with emphasis on the marketing of Downtown Cincinnati as a place to work, live, and play and to provide small business assistance, information collection, and dissemination. DCI receives many requests regarding foot traffic from current and potential downtown stakeholders seeking to expand, relocate, or open a new business. Brandstetter Carroll Inc. was commissioned to provide this information. The process to complete this Study included: 1. Data collection and review of previous pedestrian count information. 2. In conjunction with DCI and BCI staff, identify intersections and sites to be included in the counts. 3. Complete the actual counts with an experienced two person team over a three week time period. 4. Analyze and summarize the collected data in a simplified format. 5. Discuss future pedestrian traffic volume based upon previous Cincinnati data and industry standards. 6. Prepare the final report in written and graphic form. Pedestrian Count Summary, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 1

36 Pedestrian Counts II. Pedestrian Counts During the course of the kick-off meeting for the study and a follow-up meeting with DCI and Brandstetter Carroll Inc. staff, the ten intersections were identified. The locations selected were based upon locations known to have high pedestrian volumes, locations where development is anticipated and locations where development is to be encouraged. As part of this identification process, Brandstetter Carroll Inc. and DCI walked the project area during a midday peak on a typical weekday. This allowed the team to develop a better understanding of the project. Additionally, a test count was completed on West Fourth Street between Postal Place and Walnut Street on July 17, From October 16, 2007 through October 25, 2007 counts were taken at ten intersections. All counts were taken on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. An experienced team of two observers completed the counts listed from 11:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. The raw count data is summarized in Table 1. The following is a list of locations with the corresponding interval count information: Table 1: Pedestrian Count Summary Table Time Interval 8th and Elm 4th and Plum Vine and Court 9th and Main 7th and Main 11:00 to 11: :15 to 11: :30 to 11: :45 to 12: Subtotal 11:00 to 12: :00 to 12: :15 to 12: :30 to 12: :45: 1: Subtotal 12:00 to 1: :00 to 1: :15 to 1: :30 to 1: :45 to 2: Subtotal 1:00 to 2: Total from 11:00 to 2: Pedestrian Count Summary, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 2

37 Pedestrian Counts Time Interval 7th and Vine 6th and Walnut 4th and Walnut 4th and Race 5th and Vine 11:00 to 11: :15 to 11: :30 to 11: :45 to 12: Subtotal 11:00 to 12: :00 to 12: :15 to 12: :30 to 12: :45: 1: Subtotal 12:00 to 1: :00 to 1: :15 to 1: :30 to 1: :45 to 2: Subtotal 1:00 to 2: Total from 11:00 to 2: The data in Table 1 is provided in 15 minute intervals. This information was summarized based upon the number of pedestrians per hour per intersection from 11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m., 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. Figure 1 may be used as a means of comparing the volumes at all locations. As may be expected, the peak pedestrian counts were between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. at Fifth and Vine Streets with a total of 2,744. This was closely followed by an hourly count of 2,598 during the same time at Fourth and Walnut Streets. The exhibit on page 7 provides a map of the Central Business District with the peak hourly count for each intersection. Please note all the peak counts occurred during the 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. time frame. Estimated counts are also provided at selected intersections. Figure 1: Downtown Cincinnati Pedestrian Count Summary, 2007 Downtown Cincinnati Pedestrian Count Summary, Pedestrians per Hour :00AM to 12:00PM 12:00PM to 1:00PM 1:00PM to 2:00PM th and Elm 4th and PlumVine and Court9th and Main7th and Main7th and Vine6th and Walnut 4th and Walnut4th and Race5th and Vine Pedestrian Count Summary, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 3

38 Figure 2: Exhibit of Downtown Cincinnati Pedestrian Count Summary, 2007 Pedestrian Counts Pedestrian Count Summary, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 4

39 Comparisons III. Comparisons Available data was obtained from pedestrian counts completed by the City of Cincinnati Engineering Division in 1990 and This data was collected by the city for essentially all of the intersections in the Central Business District. At that time, the city performed counts to determine the volumes for the AM peak, noon peak, and PM peak. This amount of data collection was outside the scope of this study. In addition, the method used to count pedestrians differed from the method used in this study. In 1990 and 1992, the City counted volumes using each leg (north, south, east, and west) of the intersection as an independent count. As a result, the same pedestrian passing through an intersection could be counted multiple times. The method used in 1990 and 1992 precludes a comparison of historical data with the volumes gathered in However, any future counts can use 2007 as a baseline for comparison. As a comparison to other cities, a similar study was found for the City of Philadelphia. Only one location in Philadelphia had greater volume than 5 th Street and Vine Street in Cincinnati. The remainder of the intersections in Cincinnati had comparable volumes to those in Philadelphia. The Downtown Denver Partnership, Inc. compiled count information in 2006 at 24 locations. The weekday volumes in 2006 along the 16 th Street Mall corridor were significantly higher than those found in Cincinnati. However, the volumes in the remainder of the business district were comparable to those found in Cincinnati. It should be noted that the 16 th Street Mall corridor is a unique downtown corridor. It is 12 blocks long and is a pedestrian only corridor other an a free shuttle bus system. Pedestrian Count Summary, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 5

40 Projections IV. Projections It is recognized that projections of pedestrian traffic are important to the DCI s stakeholders. The actual pedestrian volume in the future will be heavily dependent upon market forces and the type and density of development. BCI has reviewed industry standards and other pedestrian count information available throughout the United States. In the course of investigating what other cities have done with their pedestrian count information, the more progressive cities complete these counts on an annual basis. This becomes another tool in evaluating the impact of changes of developments within the downtown core and a measure of success of various programs and improvements. The Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Central Development Corporation and the Portland, Oregon Business Alliance are two such organizations that complete counts on an annual basis. Pedestrian Count Summary, Downtown Cincinnati Inc., Cincinnati, Ohio 6