Last November, the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center (PBIC) introduced its Walk Friendly Communities (WFC) program to encourage safer walking environments. The WFC program recognizes communities for their commitment to walkability and pedestrian safety through comprehensive programs, plans, and policies. Sponsored by DOT’s Federal Highway Administration along with the PBIC and FedEx, WFC recognized 11 cities last week for improving walkability and pedestrian safety. Arlington County was among the 11 cities awarded and one of only four to receive Gold Level designation.
Arlington County's pedestrian initiatives like WalkArlington and activities and encouragement programs like Walkabouts and the Car-Free Diet were cited among the many reasons the County was awarded this special designation.
One of the key reasons why Arlington received this honor is its responsiveness to community input regarding pedestrian safety and walkability.
Input is critical to creating and sustaining a walkable environment. Right now, the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals and America Walks are conducting a National Walking Survey. The survey will help walking advocates understand what motivates avid walkers and what keeps others from walking more.
WalkArlington strongly encourages you to take the National Walking Survey, which can be completed in only five minutes! Plus, the results are anonymous. America Walks will analyze the data and use the results to help promote walking in walk friendly and not-so-walk friendly communities across America.
