How to Improve Walking Routes in Your Community

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Step 1: Download surveys
Download the Sidewalks and Streets toolkit at CreateTheGood.org/howto. Volunteers use these checklists to rate a walking route on various criteria, like the condition of the sidewalks, the safety of the crosswalks, and the area's overall cleanliness.

Step 2: Find volunteers
Find friends and neighbors willing to walk a designated route in town and note along the way what could be done to make it easier or safer for walking. Consider enlisting a local organization's help in supplying volunteers.

Tip
Include someone with mobility challenges if possible, and someone with a stroller. You can also consult with an expert who understands mobility concerns for people with physical challenges.

Step 3: Map out an area
Choose a date, time, and location for the walk. Map out an area to assess that should be pedestrian-friendly. You may choose your own area to walk, or ask the opinion of community leaders.

Step 4: Conduct the survey
Ask each volunteer to bring along a street map, clipboard, paper, and pens, plus a camera to record any examples of items that require change or repair. Rate each item on the survey.

Tip
Photos are especially powerful tools for illustrating problems and convincing community leaders of changes needed.

Step 5: Tally the scores
At the end of the walk, collect the surveys. Tally the results and identify improvements you can make now or in the future.

Step 6: Share your report
For improvements that require help from local agencies, produce a report that includes photos. Share your report with local agencies and elected officials and request action!

Step 7: Compare notes
Go to CreateTheGood.org/howto to check out how other communities have made themselves more pedestrian-friendly. Then post an article about your own success!

Did You Know?
Studies show that safe, walkable communities promote meaningful participation in community life.