Walkability Studies

Purpose

The purpose of the Walkability Program is to assist communities in addressing their built environment to support better-connected, more sustainable places. During the process, participants will assess specific areas to identify conditions that affect walkability, connectivity and their ability to meet daily needs. They will document observations and findings through field notes on the walking audit survey that will summarize the assessment and help determine next steps.

Goal

To engage the community in making streets and neighborhoods more walkable, livable, healthy, and welcoming.

How does it work?

The current process followed by WVU Extension Service begins with identifying community champions that have a strong interest in the walkability of their community. WVU faculty and community members work together to identify the study location and conduct the assessment. A manual is used of established procedures and guidelines. A community workshop is held upon return of the study to go over the findings and collectively make recommendations. Upon completion, manuals are returned to the faculty specialist for data entry and analysis. A final report is provided to community leaders. Photographs accompany the report to illustrate points raised by evaluators. Results are presented to the community at large and recommendations for improvement are included.

Potential Community Outcomes

• Walkability
• Active Living 
• Community Health 
• Livability 
• Quality of Life

Resources for your community

• Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center 
• National Center for Safe Routes to School 
• Pedestrian Safety 
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

For more information about the Walkability Studies program, contact Lauren Prinzo.

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