Asphalt Jungle Burnout: Why Atlanta's Walkability Scores Stink
By Franklin Everett ShawAtlanta. A sprawling metropolis, a cultural hub, and… a concrete jungle dominated by the automobile. But beneath the roar of engines and the endless highways lies a growing movement, a yearning for a city where people, not cars, reign supreme. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about health, community, and reclaiming our streets.
Atlanta’s car-dependent infrastructure isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a public health crisis in slow motion. The reliance on personal vehicles contributes significantly to air pollution, exacerbating respiratory illnesses like asthma, particularly in vulnerable communities near major roadways like I-20 and I-75/85. Studies have shown a direct correlation between proximity to highways and increased rates of childhood asthma in neighborhoods like Vine City and English Avenue.
The lack of walkability also discourages physical activity, contributing to rising rates of obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Imagine a scenario: a resident of Mechanicsville needing groceries. The nearest store might be a mile away, but the lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, and safe pedestrian routes makes walking a dangerous and unpleasant option. The car becomes the default, perpetuating a cycle of inactivity and poor health.
But hope isn’t lost. Atlanta, despite its challenges, has pockets of walkability and a growing number of residents determined to create more. Let’s explore how you can navigate Atlanta without a car and advocate for a healthier, more walkable city.
First, identify the walkable oases. Neighborhoods like Inman Park, Decatur, and Virginia-Highland offer a mix of residential areas, shops, restaurants, and parks within easy walking distance. These areas often feature sidewalks, bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes. Use resources like Walk Score (walkscore.com) to assess the walkability of different neighborhoods.
However, even in these walkable areas, challenges exist. Sidewalks can be uneven or poorly maintained, crosswalks may be missing or inadequately marked, and traffic speeds can be excessive. This is where advocacy comes in.
Get involved in your Neighborhood Planning Unit (NPU). NPUs are citizen advisory groups that make recommendations to the City Council on zoning, land use, and other issues affecting their neighborhoods. Attending NPU meetings and voicing your concerns about walkability is a powerful way to influence local policy. For example, residents of NPU-N (Midtown) successfully advocated for pedestrian improvements along Peachtree Street, including wider sidewalks and protected bike lanes.
Support organizations like Propel ATL (formerly the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition). Propel ATL advocates for safer streets for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users. They organize advocacy campaigns, conduct research, and provide educational programs. Their work has been instrumental in securing funding for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure projects throughout the city.
Don’t underestimate the power of direct communication with your City Councilmember. Email or call their office to express your concerns about specific issues, such as the need for a crosswalk at a dangerous intersection or the lack of sidewalks on a particular street. Be specific and provide evidence to support your claims. For example, document instances where pedestrians have been injured or nearly injured due to unsafe conditions.
Consider DIY improvements to your immediate surroundings. Even small changes can make a big difference. Organize a neighborhood cleanup to remove litter and debris from sidewalks. Plant trees or flowers along the street to create a more pleasant walking environment. Install a Little Free Library to encourage community interaction.
One common mistake developers make is prioritizing parking over pedestrian access. New developments often feature large parking lots that separate buildings from the street, making it less appealing to walk. Advocate for developments that prioritize pedestrian-friendly design, such as buildings that are set close to the street, with sidewalks, street trees, and ground-floor retail.
Another challenge is the lack of funding for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. The City of Atlanta often prioritizes funding for road projects over projects that benefit pedestrians and cyclists. Advocate for a more equitable distribution of transportation funding. Support initiatives like the Renew Atlanta infrastructure bond program, which includes funding for pedestrian and bicycle projects.
Navigating Atlanta without a car requires planning and resourcefulness. MARTA, Atlanta’s public transit system, offers bus and rail service throughout the city. However, MARTA’s coverage is limited, and service can be infrequent, particularly in suburban areas. Use MARTA’s trip planner (itsmarta.com) to plan your routes and check for service disruptions.
Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, but be aware that these services can be expensive and contribute to traffic congestion. Explore alternative transportation options like bike-sharing programs (e.g., Relay Bike Share) and electric scooters. However, be sure to follow safety guidelines and wear a helmet.
For longer distances, consider using intercity bus services like Greyhound or Megabus. These services offer affordable transportation to other cities in the region.
One often overlooked resource is the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). The ARC is the regional planning agency for the Atlanta metropolitan area. They develop long-range transportation plans and provide funding for transportation projects. Get involved in the ARC’s planning process to advocate for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.
Remember, creating a more walkable Atlanta is a long-term effort. It requires sustained advocacy, community engagement, and a commitment to prioritizing people over cars. By working together, we can transform Atlanta into a city where walking is not just a necessity, but a pleasure. Let’s reclaim our streets and build a healthier, more vibrant community for all.