A Walker Avenue entry to parking at the Plaza Court building is being converted into a plaza as part of an effort to make Midtown more friendly for pedestrians. [Photos By Steve Gooch, The Oklahoman]

Walker Avenue in the heart of Midtown is getting a makeover as driveways are converted into retail spaces and plazas and large trash bins are being moved to less visible locations.

Chris Fleming, a partner in Midtown Renaissance, said the improvements designed by architect Brian Fitzsimmons will close one of two curb cuts that open into a parking lot in front of the Plaza Court building at NW 10 and Walker.

“It's an effort to make it more walkable,” Fleming said. “In its place, we're adding a patio, hopefully McNellie's (Public House) will incorporate. Under the garage parking ramp north of the Plaza Court, we are building out a 1,000-square-foot retail space. We also are redeveloping the north side where the dumpsters are and creating an enclosure where they won't be seen.”

The improvements also include reconfiguration of parking spaces along the south side of NW 11 between Walker and Dewey avenues. Farther north on Walker Avenue, Midtown Renaissance recently closed another drive between Louie's Grill & Bar, 1215 N Walker Ave., and a building at 1227 N Walker Ave. that formerly was home to Meg Guess Bridal.