As cities grow and revitalize, traditional conceptions of "the downtown" are beginning to change. Downtowns were once considered to be a group of isolated, independent businesses.  Today, they are cohesive collectives. With thematic identities ranging from sophisticated to bohemian, the downtown itself is fast evolving into a popular hospitality destination.

As a result, the role of the sidewalk has expanded from a mere pathway for pedestrians to a new and vibrant venue that serves various social and cultural functions. The sidewalk of modern times, the ‘multi-use sidewalk’, offers unique opportunities for dining, entertainment, shopping, and most importantly, people watching. However, the emergence of the sidewalk as a hospitality venue presents new planning, managing, and policing challenges.