Do Unsafe Roads Mean Responsible Driving?

            European as well as American road designs based on the shared space theory would improve driving conditions in many ways. Studies from design to psychology to observation in the places already making use of this idea suggest that shared space is a step in the right direction. Shared space helps the environment, reduces speeding, brings more attention to the road (where it should be for drivers), and promotes a better sense of community by encouraging people to walk along the newly beautified and safe roads. Of course, we can’t change the structure of all roads immediately, but if more cities begin to follow this design it could not only improve safety for drivers and pedestrians, but it could also influence our society to behave differently towards one another.  Lockwood has made some helpful observations of North Flagler Drive, a street that has been reconstructed partially using the principles of shared space by narrowing the roads, adding aesthetic value, and widening sidewalks. He states that few people walked on North Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach because of prominent illegal activities, boarded up houses, and other unsavory activities, but when the road was redone homes were improved, property value rose, and natural neighborhood surveillance occurred, making inhabitants feel more safe (Lockwood, 41).