A new roundup of Walkability Wins. This month we’re showcasing the movement by highlighting more places across the country who are transforming mobility and advancing pedestrian-friendly agendas.
Montgomery County, Maryland
The Montgomery County Planning Board unanimously voted to make the Montgomery Parks Open Parkways initiative on Beach Drive permanent. Beginning on June 21, portions of Beach Drive will be off limits to motor vehicles every Friday through Sunday offering 2.2 miles of space for pedestrians, cyclists and other non motorized users. This extension, introduced during the pandemic, has already been enjoyed by over a million people and is expected to improve options for everyone.
Shout out to WABA Action Committee for Montgomery County for this amazing win!
Hawai’i
A landmark settlement with 13 young climate advocates will accelerate Hawaii’s transit system decarbonization, recognizing children’s constitutional rights to a sustainable climate. The agreement includes creating a Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan, establishing a youth advisory council, and completing pedestrian, bicycle and transit networks in the next 5 years. This is a historic case that sets a precedent for youth-led climate action and demonstrates the power of collective engagement by young leaders.
New Haven, Connecticut
Sparked by years of student-led advocacy after numerous bicycle-car collisions, New Haven will add sidewalks, speed bump, safer bus stop, intersection enhancements and a pedestrian bridge over Wintergreen Brook early next year. This will connect Common Ground High School, Brennan-Rogers Magnet School, and local housing developments. Funded by a $669,600 state grant, these upgrades aim to make walking and biking safer, addressing the area’s historical lack of pedestrian infrastructure.
Newport, Virginia
The City Council unanimously approved a resolution to partner with the state and Virginia Department of Transportation for the citywide pedestrian safety improvements project. This project includes upgrades at 79 intersections, focusing on pedestrian buttons, signals, and ADA-compliant ramps. The project, funded by a VDOT grant covering 90% federal and 10% state costs, aims to enhance safety with new technologies and infrastructure improvements. Construction dates are yet to be determined.
Indianapolis, Indiana
The City of Indianapolis has awarded $500,000 to improve ADA compliance at bus stops. This funding will support upgrades such as sidewalk connections, boarding areas, and curb ramps, enhancing access for neighborhoods between Central and Arlington avenues and 10th and 38th streets. The project, set to begin in 2025, will create 91 accessible bus stops through a partnership with federal funds, the Department of Public Works, IU Health, and IndyGo Foundation donors. These improvements are set increase mobility and equitable access.
To catch up on previous installments of Walkability Wins, visit our blog. Have a win? Send it to us: social@americawalks.org.
