Sidewalks to Nowhere: Oklahoma City's Walkability Crisis
By Franklin Everett ShawTired of dodging cars while walking your dog in the Paseo Arts District? Do you dream of strolling to the Plaza District without risking life and limb on a cracked sidewalk? You’re not alone. Oklahoma City, while making strides, still has a long way to go to become truly walkable. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety, community, and a higher quality of life for everyone. This guide is your roadmap to making OKC a better place to walk, one sidewalk at a time.
Let’s face it: OKC wasn’t exactly designed with pedestrians in mind. Decades of prioritizing cars have left us with a patchwork of sidewalks, missing links, and downright dangerous crossings. But change is possible, and it starts with you.
First, identify the problem areas. Take a walk (carefully!) around your neighborhood. Where are the sidewalk gaps? Are there crosswalks that need better signage or lighting? Is the pavement uneven or cracked, posing a tripping hazard? Document everything. Take photos and videos. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
Next, report it to the city. OKC Connect is your best friend here. This online portal (or the mobile app) allows you to report issues directly to the city’s Public Works Department. Be specific in your description. Instead of saying “sidewalk is broken,” say “sidewalk at the corner of NW 16th Street and Blackwelder Avenue has a 6-inch crack and is a tripping hazard.” Include your photos and videos. Note the service request number you receive. This is crucial for tracking the progress of your report.
Don’t just report it once and forget about it. Follow up! Check the status of your request on OKC Connect. If it’s been sitting in “pending” for weeks, call the Public Works Department directly. Be polite but persistent. Ask for an estimated timeline for repair. Document every interaction you have with the city.
Now, let’s talk about organizing your neighbors. Individual complaints are important, but a united voice is much louder. Start a neighborhood group focused on walkability. Use social media, email lists, or even old-fashioned flyers to get the word out. Host a meeting to discuss the issues and brainstorm solutions.
Consider a “walk audit.” This is a structured assessment of your neighborhood’s walkability, conducted by residents. Walk Oklahoma offers resources and training on how to conduct a walk audit. This provides valuable data and helps you prioritize your advocacy efforts.
Once you have a group, contact your local city council member. They are your direct representatives and have the power to influence city policy and budget decisions. Find their contact information on the city’s website. Email them a summary of the walkability issues in your neighborhood, along with your proposed solutions. Request a meeting to discuss the matter in person.
Here’s a template you can adapt for your email:
Subject: Urgent Need for Walkability Improvements in [Your Neighborhood]
Dear Councilmember [Councilmember’s Last Name],
My name is [Your Name] and I am a resident of [Your Neighborhood]. I am writing to you today to express my concern about the lack of safe and accessible pedestrian infrastructure in our community.
[Specifically describe the issues, e.g., “We have several missing sidewalk links on Classen Boulevard, making it dangerous for residents to walk to local businesses. The crosswalk at NW 23rd and Walker lacks adequate lighting, posing a safety risk at night.”]
These issues negatively impact the quality of life for residents, particularly seniors, families with young children, and people with disabilities. We believe that improving walkability is essential for creating a safer, healthier, and more vibrant community.
We have formed a neighborhood group, [Neighborhood Group Name], to advocate for these improvements. We would like to request a meeting with you to discuss our concerns and propose solutions. We are available on [list available dates/times].
Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
Don’t be afraid to attend city council meetings. Public comment periods are an opportunity to voice your concerns directly to the council. Prepare a short, concise statement outlining the walkability issues in your neighborhood and your proposed solutions. Speak clearly and passionately.
Advocate for specific projects. The city has a budget for infrastructure improvements. Find out how those decisions are made and advocate for projects that will improve walkability in your neighborhood. This might include filling sidewalk gaps, installing new crosswalks, or improving street lighting.
Partner with local organizations. There are many organizations in OKC that are working to improve walkability and transportation options. BikeWalkOKC is a great resource. They can provide technical assistance, advocacy support, and connections to other community groups.
Be patient, but persistent. Change doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time and effort to influence city policy and budget decisions. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Keep reporting issues, organizing your neighbors, and contacting your elected officials.
One common pitfall is assuming the city knows about the problem. They might not! They rely on residents to report issues and advocate for improvements. Another mistake is giving up too easily. Don’t let bureaucratic hurdles discourage you. Keep pushing for change.
Remember, you are not alone. There are many other residents in OKC who share your desire for a more walkable city. By working together, we can create safer, healthier, and more vibrant communities for everyone. Start small, stay focused, and never underestimate the power of a united voice. Your efforts can make a real difference in the lives of your neighbors and the future of Oklahoma City.