Clinton - Activating Downtown Alleyways

Students in a course in the School of Planning and Public Affairs developed recommendations for revitalizing Clinton's alleyways with improved pavers, public art, and other modifications.

Downtown alleyways often serve important functions, such as waste management or service entrances for businesses. However, communities are increasingly recognizing alleyways as opportunities to create unique public spaces while also improving water runoff.

Students in the course Public Policy & Persuasion collected best practices from other cities, including a successful permeable paver program Dubuque that helps with stormwater management, and public art that attracts visitors to Iowa City's alleys. They mapped potential pedestrian pathways in downtown Clinton that could increase connectivity and walkability along interesting and quieter routes. They also suggested ways to engage schools and the whole community with the project.