Parking lots may boast slower vehicle speeds, but they do not have dedicated pedestrian sidewalks, so I'll call that safety argument a wash. You didn't mention what I think is one of the greatest values added by a parking garage, and that is the opportunity for upper story residents to rent dedicated parking spaces. Even with a little walk, at least having a reserved parking place makes living downtown more viable.
That is a very valid point. The MKSK study talked about how the city is lacking residential choices, relying way too much on single-family residential lots. Downtown housing development can help turn this tide, and parking will need to be addressed.
Parking lots may boast slower vehicle speeds, but they do not have dedicated pedestrian sidewalks, so I'll call that safety argument a wash. You didn't mention what I think is one of the greatest values added by a parking garage, and that is the opportunity for upper story residents to rent dedicated parking spaces. Even with a little walk, at least having a reserved parking place makes living downtown more viable.
That is a very valid point. The MKSK study talked about how the city is lacking residential choices, relying way too much on single-family residential lots. Downtown housing development can help turn this tide, and parking will need to be addressed.