[highwater]

Couldn't find a thread on walkability issues in general, so thought I'd start one. The following article pertains to Ainslie Woods/Westdale, but hopefully there will be similar studies in other neighbourhoods in the future.


A foot-friendly plan for the west end

Focus on pedestrians
February 25, 2009
The Hamilton Spectator
(Feb 25, 2009)

Small street improvements for pedestrians can make the Ainslie Wood and Westdale neighbourhoods more vibrant and healthy, according to a citizens committee.

"We want to make the community as walkable as possible," said Suzanne Brown, a public health manager for the city, Westdale resident and member of the Ainslie Wood Westdale walkability committee.

"It's a benefit. It's a draw for families and we think it's a healthier community."

The committee, which conducted a walkability assessment in these older and more established neighbourhoods, submitted a report with 60 recommendations, all with a pedestrian focus, to the city.

City council, convened as Hamilton's board of health yesterday, forwarded the recommendations to the Ainslie Wood transportation master plan study and to staff.

Ward Councillor Brian McHattie said the walkability study and recommendations represent "a fundamental shift" in transportation master plans by adding a focus that wasn't there before -- pedestrians.

"Cars will have to fit in around the pedestrians," he said. "My interest is in seeing pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods."

McHattie said the recommendations call for mostly small enhancements totalling about $50,000 or less.

Brown said the priorities are improvements that aid pedestrian safety, including a connecting sidewalk at a gap in front of and across from the Westdale Theatre and adjoining businesses.

The more colourful recommendations call for the introduction of public street art, an outdoor fountain by Second Cup in Westdale and a new dog water fountain. Improved garbage bylaw enforcement and garden contests and awards are also recommended.

A U.S. study, reported last year in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, found that people who live in older neighbourhoods appear to be less likely to be overweight. The key, said researchers, was walkability. Older communities are more likely to encourage people to drive less and walk more, which can help keep weight down.