[buzzg]

There are numerous construction projects in downtown/adjacent areas right now that have the hoarding over the sidewalk, it's definitely still often used. Probably depends on how close the construction comes to the sidewalk, if the building is being built to the street edge, would be pretty difficult to keep the sidewalk open.

Just off the top of my head, WAG, 433 Main, 300 Main, Warehouse 1885, NewPort Center all have protective hoarding up over the sidewalk currently.