Many cities encourage their populace to walk more. They realize how it improves quality of life and the health and safety of its citizens. Many residents place a high priority on walk-ability. It fosters a sense of community while saving gas and enjoying the city. Redfin named Chicago the sixth most walkable city in America. The city has placed an emphasis on improving its walkability, raising its score by 2.7 points over the previous year. Each Illinois pedestrian lawyer at Lerner and Rowe Personal Injury Attorneys applauds the city’s efforts to make the city more pedestrian-friendly.
Rankings
Redfin calculated more than 2 billion walking paths across the U.S., according to the Chicago Tribune. They considered factors such as pedestrian friendliness, nearby amenities, population, and neighborhood layouts. Chicago’s increased score is partially due to the city’s efforts to make the city more pedestrian friendly.
New York topped the list, followed by San Francisco, Boston, Philadelphia, Miami, and Chicago. Chicago’s score earned it a “very walkable” rating. So, if you’ve living in the city, you should be able to accomplish most of your errands on foot.
The study looked at the walkability of specific neighborhoods in ranked cities. Near North ranked as the most walkable neighborhood in Chicago, followed by Printers Row, Gold Coast, the Loop, and River North.
How the City Did It
City leaders created and began to implement a pedestrian plan, which began with several meetings to determine needed changes. They also asked residents’ ideas for all areas of the city. The plan addressed everything from slowing the flow of traffic to improving snow removal.
The city has re-purposed an abandoned rail line, creating an inviting multi-use recreational trail and park called The 606. This 2.7 mile-path runs through Logan Square, Humboldt Park, and Bucktown. It has become a popular pathway for pedestrians as well as bicyclists.
The DoT also launched the Make Way for People initiative to create public spaces. It opens up streets, parking spots, and more areas to new opportunities while improving safety and promoting walkable communities.
Vision Zero Chicago also aims to eliminate death and serious injury from traffic crashes. This starts with making streets safe for everyone, including pedestrians and bikers. Through a Complete Streets policy, the city aims to make roadways safe for the most vulnerable user. This included adding refuge islands, countdown timers and bump-outs on many streets.
Getting Help from an Illinois Pedestrian Lawyer
Despite improvements that have made the city more pedestrian-friendly, accidents still occur. Drivers do not always stop and yield the right-of-way to anyone in crosswalks. And if they speed, the situation can be even more dangerous. These accidents can result in severe injuries, a lifetime of pain and medical expenses, or even death. An Illinois pedestrian lawyer can help protect your rights, ensuring that you get the best settlement.
Injured in an accident? Contact an Illinois pedestrian lawyer at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys in Chicago at 844-977-1900. Our office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but you can call us 24/7 for help. We offer an online LiveChat for your convenience. You will not have to worry about paying any money upfront. We provide free consults, and you will not pay a fee unless you win your case.