Here's what they found:

• Pedestrianization actually increases retail sales volumes

• Geographic location within a city tends to be insignificant

• The two key factors for driving revenue are: (1) store density and (2) store category

• For store category, the largest positive effect was observed for cafes, restaurants, bars, and other non-tradeable, local consumption activities

What this last point is saying is that people, at least in Spanish cities, tend to prefer pedestrian-friendly environments when it comes to experience-based activities. And that makes complete sense. On the other hand, if you're just running out for a little toilet paper and hemorrhoid cream, having a nice pedestrian-first experience is less critical. And this also makes sense.

Some of you, I'm sure, will correctly point out that Spain has, on average, better weather compared to a place like Canada. And that their store densities and overall densities are likely higher, and that they have deep historic urban fabrics to rely on. All of these things are certainly factors. But I don't think any of this should stop us from working to better optimize our cities for pedestrians. There are lots of successful examples all across Canada. It can work. Just look at Market Street.

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