Pedestrian Issues
Walking is as safe, healthy, and environmentally sound way to get around as there is. Intersections
that are unfriendly to pedestrians and streets that lack sidewalks discourage walking and are a serious
safety hazard to those who can not or choose not to drive. Furthermore, mass transit cannot stop in
front of every house; if streets are unsafe for pedestrians, investments in mass transit will be wasted
because people can't safely get to the bus stop or rail station.
Sidewalks are an essential part of transportation, not an "amenity" that can be done without.
Montgomery County needs a clear policy on sidewalk construction that encourages the building
of sidewalks in response to transportation needs and community requests. We urge the
Transportation Department to establish such a policy, in writing, so that citizen
participation is not frustrated. We urge the County Council to provide adequate
funding so that community requests can be satisfied within a reasonable length of
time and the use of alternatives to automobile transportation can be encouraged.
ACT Sidewalk Construction Policy
Related Information Sources
Montgomery County Pedestrian Safety
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This page was updated April 2, 2008.