No Sidewalks, More Fat? Tulsa's Hidden Walkability Crisis
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine trying to navigate a city designed for cars, not people. Picture yourself wanting to take a simple walk to the grocery store, but finding yourself forced to hug the shoulder of a busy road, dodging speeding vehicles. This is the reality for many residents of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and it’s silently contributing to a public health crisis.
Tulsa’s sprawling layout, coupled with a significant lack of sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, actively discourages physical activity. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a barrier to a healthier lifestyle, potentially fueling higher rates of obesity and related health issues, particularly in underserved neighborhoods.
The problem isn’t abstract. Consider the Kendall-Whittier neighborhood, a vibrant area with a mix of residential and commercial spaces. While it boasts a growing number of local businesses, many streets lack continuous sidewalks, forcing pedestrians to walk in the street or take circuitous routes. This makes even short trips feel daunting, especially for families with young children or elderly residents.
The impact is clear: fewer people walk or bike, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle. This lack of incidental exercise – the kind you get from simply walking to the store or running errands – adds up over time. Studies consistently show a strong correlation between walkable environments and lower rates of obesity and chronic diseases. Tulsa is, in effect, engineering inactivity.
But what can be done? The solution isn’t simply to demand sidewalks overnight. That’s a long-term goal, but immediate action is possible.
First, leverage Tulsa’s existing trail system. The city boasts an impressive network of trails, including the Arkansas River Trail and the Gathering Place trails. These offer safe and scenic alternatives to walking on busy streets. Plan your walks or bike rides around these trails, even if it means driving a short distance to reach them. This requires a shift in mindset: viewing exercise not just as a chore, but as an opportunity to explore the city’s natural beauty.
Second, become a “guerrilla pedestrian.” This means finding creative ways to incorporate movement into your daily routine, even in a car-centric environment. Park further away from your destination and walk the extra distance. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk around the block during your lunch break. These small changes can make a significant difference over time.
Third, advocate for change at the local level. Attend city council meetings and voice your concerns about the lack of pedestrian infrastructure. Support local organizations that are working to improve walkability in Tulsa. Write letters to your elected officials and demand that they prioritize pedestrian safety and accessibility. This is where the real power lies: in collective action.
One specific challenge is the perception that walking is “unsafe” in certain areas of Tulsa. This is often rooted in legitimate concerns about crime and traffic. However, avoiding walking altogether only reinforces the problem. Instead, consider walking with a friend or family member, choosing well-lit routes, and being aware of your surroundings. Report any safety concerns to the police.
Another pitfall is the tendency to rely solely on cars for transportation. This is understandable, given Tulsa’s car-dependent infrastructure. However, it’s important to consciously challenge this habit. Ask yourself: “Could I walk or bike to this destination instead of driving?” Even if the answer is “no” most of the time, making the effort to consider alternative modes of transportation can help shift your mindset.
Consider the example of the Pearl District, a neighborhood that has undergone significant revitalization in recent years. While the area still faces challenges in terms of pedestrian infrastructure, the increased density of businesses and residences has created a more walkable environment. This demonstrates that even small improvements can have a positive impact on walkability.
A common mistake developers make is prioritizing parking over pedestrian access. This results in buildings that are surrounded by parking lots, making it difficult and unpleasant to walk to them. To overcome this, advocate for zoning regulations that require developers to prioritize pedestrian access and incorporate sidewalks and other pedestrian-friendly features into their designs.
The key is to be proactive and persistent. Don’t wait for the city to solve the problem for you. Take ownership of your own health and well-being by finding creative ways to incorporate movement into your daily routine. And don’t be afraid to speak up and demand that Tulsa become a more walkable and livable city for everyone.
Tulsa’s lack of sidewalks isn’t just a matter of convenience; it’s a public health issue. By leveraging existing trails, becoming “guerrilla pedestrians,” and advocating for change at the local level, Tulsa residents can take control of their health and help create a more walkable and vibrant city. The journey won’t be easy, but the rewards – a healthier, more active community – are well worth the effort.