Urban Design Features 3 (November 9, 2009):

Another area that can provide both significant utility and visual appeal are some of the modern stormwater treatment options. Engineers and landscape architects have collaborated in recent years to design functional features that create a more desirable street view.

As you can see, there are a wide variety of urban design options that can make an area much more attractive so that people find it desirable to spend some time there.

The caveat is that these features all come with a price tag. However, many people feel strongly that the price is more than worth the enhancement of their environment, and the attraction of shoppers to an area is always welcomed by the local business people trying to make their living there.