Not really. There are, however, a LOT of parking lots there, which allows the winds to REALLY bite there, which is why I try to avoid traveling that corridor if I can. More open? Not necessarily, but the area does have a wider road in some areas, plus there are mulitple six-corner intersections on North Ave.
Your question to Mark made me think of how much our weather has changed here over the years. Back about 20+ years ago, my area use to get severe fog. So bad that you could not drive because you could not see the front of your own car. I remember leaving work and not being able to find my car in the parking lot. Over the years that kind of fog here rarely happens. They say it is because there are less open areas, more houses, buildings, schools etc.
Cold, but a beautiful day today. Better than the last couple of days had been, so no complaints. I'll take the cold over rain anytime, especially when I'm traveling.