Walkable New Albany

The inner core of New Albany was originally designed as a walkable community. When our streets were laid out and our sidewalks first constructed no one had ever heard the term walkable cities, but they knew that the residents needed to be able to walk to work, school, church, and shopping. After all, there were no cars.

We are fortunate to have inherited the infrastucture for a walkable city. This is a valuable asset that we can take advantage of. A few minor changes and upgrades will position us to make the most of the growing demand for walkable, urban environments. This is a sound strategy for keeping our older neighborhoods viable.

From Walkable Communities Inc. at www.walkable.org

Walkability is the cornerstone and key to an urban area's efficient ground transportation. Every trip begins and ends with walking. Walking remains the cheapest form of transport for all people, and the construction of a walkable community provides the most affordable transportation system any community can plan, design, construct and maintain. Walkable communities put urban environments back on a scale for sustainability of resources (both natural and economic) and lead to more social interaction, physical fitness and diminished crime and other social problems. Walkable communities are more liveable communities and lead to whole, happy, healthy lives for the people who live in them.

According to AARP, urban living appeals to retired people, empty nesters, baby boomers, and young families alike. They like the convenience of having stores, entertainment, and services all within walking distance.

http://www.aarp.org/health/fitness/walking/a2005-01-19-walking