Street

A street is a public road in a city, town, or village that provides passage for pedestrians and vehicles. It is typically lined with sidewalks and buildings and serves as a link in a broader transportation network that connects homes, workplaces, and public spaces.

Streets vary in width, surface, and design, influencing safety and mobility. They may include traffic lanes, crosswalks, bike lanes, parking, and street furniture such as lighting and benches. Functional categories include arterial streets that carry through traffic, collectors that balance access and movement, and local streets that provide direct property access. Some streets are specialized as commercial corridors or pedestrian streets with restricted vehicle access.

Street layouts reflect historical development, ranging from grid plans to organic layouts. Street names often commemorate local history, geography, or notable individuals. Advancements in infrastructure over the 19th and 20th centuries brought paving, drainage, signage, and traffic control, while contemporary practice emphasizes safety and accessibility for all users.

Beyond transport, streets function as public spaces for commerce, social interaction, and cultural activity. Their design, maintenance, and policy—such as traffic calming, pedestrianization, and transit integration—affect livability, equity, and economic activity.

Across different cities, streets carry varied meanings and roles, from bustling commercial arteries to quiet residential avenues.