At first glance, you wouldnt think the park would have anything to do with a small business. Id like you to take a deeper look, however.

I recently became quite perturbed regarding the lack of sidewalks on Henderson Road. I live directly across the street from the Henderson soccer fields, which backs up via some lovely wooded trails to Henderson park. On the west side, which crosses over 285, there are sidewalks. On the east side, which leads to downtown Tucker, there are not. In fact, the street leading towards Tucker not only carries a great deal of traffic but has an almost nonexistent curb.

I penned a journal entry berating the lack of accessibility to the park from the plethora of nearby neighborhoods. I ranted on the growing obesity problem in America. Only after I completed the journal entry did I realize the effect the lack of sidewalks has on Tucker small businesses.

Despite its close proximity to Atlanta, Tucker still carries that small town feeling. Local renovations will heighten that sense. And the quantity of small store fronts only adds to the feeling. All of this would be improved by adding sidewalks to the neighborhoods barely a mile away.

Thus far, I have only walked to two businesses in Tucker, My Fair Lady gym and the local library. The walk was extremely difficult, as I have three small children (5, 3, and 1) and only myself to push a double stroller. This means that I not only had to struggle along in the grass and often on the busy road itself, I also had to keep a sharp eye on my kindergartner as we traveled. I will not make this trip frequently.

By the same token, I will not enjoy the chance of walking among the small business storefronts prevalent around the town. I have seen various places that might be worth exploring but I wont take the time to travel there by car. Were I to wander the town on foot, however, you might find me more likely to stop in a new store and explore.

Improving traffic in a smaller town means more than fixing the rush hour problems. By routing more pedestrians through the area, Tucker can increase the chances that new folks will encounter its businesses and become frequent customers. As those customers return to one store, they might take the time to visit another.

Even if you dont live in Tucker, consider how improving foot traffic in your neighborhood might heighten your business profits. For many owners, this means checking in at town meetings, or perhaps writing a letter to your local business or newspaper. Some of these you should already be doing; others take only a few minutes. Increasing your awareness of your community even if it is the big city can only stand to benefit you.