Why Main Streets Need Data-Led Placemaking

Downtowns and Main Streets are the heartbeat of a community. They’re where people gather, shop, celebrate, and connect. But as communities change, so do their needs.

Today’s public spaces need to reflect real community priorities — what people want, need, and actually use. The days of relying on gut instinct or guesswork are over. If we want thriving, welcoming downtowns, we need to base our plans on real data and insights.

That’s where data-led placemaking comes in.

What is Data-Led Placemaking?

In simple terms, data-led placemaking means using facts, numbers, and community feedback to guide decisions about public spaces. It replaces assumptions with clear, actionable insights.

Unlike traditional placemaking, which often relies on gut feelings, traditions, or guesswork, this approach is grounded in what people actually do and say.

Some of the data you can use includes:

• Foot traffic counts to see where people naturally gather
• Community surveys to hear directly from residents and visitors
• Event participation data to learn which events draw crowds
• Social media check-ins and tags to track popular spots
• Business turnover rates to understand the health of your downtown

When you layer this information together, you get a much clearer picture of what’s working — and where there’s room to improve.

Why It Matters for Downtown Districts

When you make decisions based on real data, you can:

✅ Prioritize the right projects and improvements. Focus your time and budget where it’ll make the biggest difference.

✅ Support local businesses. Understand visitor habits and what brings people downtown, then use that to boost foot traffic and sales.

✅ Create safer, more inclusive public spaces. Data helps identify underused areas, safety concerns, and opportunities for more gathering spaces or family-friendly spots.

✅ Attract grants and funding. When you can prove the value of your projects with data, it’s easier to earn support and secure resources.

✅ Avoid wasting resources. Don’t spend time and money on projects or events that won’t connect with your community. Use data to test ideas before you invest.

Easy Data Sources You Can Start Using Today

You don’t need expensive systems or a background in GIS to get started. Here are a few simple, effective sources you can tap into right now:

• Foot Traffic Tools: Tools like Placer.ai can track visitor patterns. Or use Proxi’s Check-Ins feature to gather real-time data from community members.
• Community Feedback: Use free survey tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey, or create crowdsourced maps with Proxi where people can drop pins and share ideas.
• Event Metrics: Track ticket sales, headcounts, or gather vendor and attendee feedback after events to learn what worked.
• Social Media Listening: Follow local hashtags, see which businesses or public spaces are tagged, and read online reviews to get a sense of what’s popular and what needs attention.
• Public Records: Look at business licenses, vacancy rates, safety reports, and other public data that gives insight into your district’s trends.

Steps to Start Data-Led Placemaking in Your District

Identify Your Goals
What’s your priority? Is it improving public safety? Boosting business? Making your downtown more vibrant and welcoming? Start with a clear focus.

Gather Your Data
Use existing sources or create new, simple tools like surveys or Proxi maps to collect feedback from your community.

Analyze and Map It
Look for trends, patterns, and gaps. Mapping your data visually can help you see areas that are thriving and those that need attention.

Make Informed Changes
Start with quick wins — things you can improve right away — and plan for bigger, long-term projects based on what your data is telling you.

Measure Impact
Check your data before and after changes. See what’s working, what isn’t, and keep adjusting. Placemaking should always evolve with your community.

Tools & Resources for Downtown Leaders

• Proxi: Build interactive maps, gather community feedback, crowdsource ideas, and visualize your data in one place. Proxi is designed for non-GIS users — simple, powerful, and approachable.
• Foot Traffic Tools: Use tools like Placer.ai or mobile check-ins to see where people are going.
• Free Survey Platforms: Google Forms and SurveyMonkey are easy ways to collect input.
• Public Data Sources: Check census data, city records, and economic development reports for useful stats.
• Local Universities & Economic Development Offices: Many offer resources, reports, and students eager to work on real-world projects.

Data Makes Downtown Stronger

Data-led placemaking isn’t just a trend — it’s the future of smart, sustainable downtowns. And it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Even starting small can lead to big insights.

When you gather data and listen to your community, you make decisions with confidence. The result? Public spaces that feel local, inclusive, and alive.

Ready to Get Smarter About Your Streets?

You don’t need to tackle everything at once. Start small. Gather a little data, ask a few thoughtful questions, and map what matters most to your community.

Let Proxi help you make it easy — and fun!