Streetscapes are an integral part of a city’s structure. Streetscapes are developed over time and are shaped by many different factors, such as geographical location, economics, planning techniques and design styles of certain time periods. Portland, Maine has many excellent examples of good streetscapes, mostly dating from the 19^th Century. Portland has also been influenced by more recent movements that have affected streetscapes, particularly urban renewal in the 1950’s and 1960’s. The Franklin Arterial is an example of an urban renewal project that has detrimentally affected the city and its communities. Exchange Street on the other hand is a street that contains most of the attributes of a good street. Streetscapes are man made and therefore are reliant on the economic and social conditions of the time period in which a street is being built. By recognizing the  positive elements of a good street then cities and their communities can be designed and constructed with the common good in mind for both the city and its residents..

            Streetscapes are complicated structures and contain several different elements, which in combination create a streetscape. Street design, sidewalks, buildings, parks, and squares are all elements of a streetscape, though all these elements are not necessarily part of every street. Streetscapes are an important, often overlooked, part of the city’s infrastructure. It is important for community building as well as providing character. Good streetscapes are places that people want to be. They are both functional and beautiful.