Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool

Written by Julia O’Hanlon, Associate Policy Scientist Marcia S. Scott, Policy Scientist Lexi West, Public Administration Fellow Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool

January 2016

Written by Julia O’Hanlon Associate Policy Scientist

Marcia S. Scott Policy Scientist

Lexi West Public Administration Fellow

Published by Institute for Public Administration School of Public Policy & Administration College of Arts & Sciences University of Delaware www.ipa.udel.edu

With support from the Delaware Department of Transportation and Delaware Division of Public Health IPA is especially appreciative of the Acknowledgements Preface continued support from DelDOT staff, Institute for Public Administration (IPA), As the Director of the Institute for Public especially former Assistant Planning Director University of Delaware Administration (IPA) at the University of Ralph Reeb. Julia O’Hanlon and Marcia Scott Delaware, I am pleased to provide Healthy served as Principal Investigators/Project Authors and Project Team and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Managers for this project, and co-authored Julia O’Hanlon, Associate Policy Scientist Walkability Assessment Tool. The Walkability the document with Public Administration Marcia S. Scott, Policy Scientist Assessment Tool is designed to guide Fellow Alexis West. In addition to IPA’s Alexis West, Public Administration Fellow municipalities in evaluating the walkability online Delaware Complete Communities Document Design and Editorial Review of specific areas within their towns and Planning Toolbox, this assessment tool will Sarah M. Pragg, Policy Specialist cities and considering strategies and policies also be included as a component of IPA’s to improve local pedestrian networks. online Toolkit for a Healthy Delaware. Project Support This assessment tool serves as an updated The benefits of physical activity continue to version to IPA’s original tool, developed The project team would like to thank the gain national attention. The U.S. Surgeon following people for their valuable insight and published in 2010. The updated tool General’s recent call to action emphasizes and contributions to the development of this emphasizes the policy framework that the need to improve access to safe and assessment tool: supports walkability, provides hyperlinks to convenient places to walk and wheelchair Drew Boyce, DelDOT online resources, and prepares participants roll. It also recognizes the importance Matt Carter, Delaware Center for to engage in an interactive assessment of community design, planning, and Transportation process from pre- to post-walk activities. public policy to facilitate improved built William J. DeCoursey, IPA A video tutorial, which supplements this environments for more active lifestyles. Heather Dunigan, WILMAPCO publication, has been produced to help Providing opportunities for all citizens to participants be aware of what to look for David Edgell, Office of State Planning safely and easily traverse the pedestrian Coordination during the in-field walkability audit. network to destinations of daily living is Michael Fortner, City of Newark Preparation of this updated assessment tool one significant way to promote physical Eric Jacobson, IPA activity and active transportation. I hope builds upon the University of Delaware IPA’s John McNeal, DelDOT Healthy Communities initiative, supported that Delaware local government officials and Patti Miller, Nemours Health and other stakeholders will use this assessment by the Delaware Division of Public Health Prevention Services (DDPS), and the Planning for Complete tool to build healthier, walkable, and Ricky Nietubicz, City of Newark Communities in Delaware project, which complete communities. Ralph Reeb, DelDOT is an ongoing collaboration between the Jerome R. Lewis, Ph.D. Eileen Sparling, Center for Disabilities Delaware Department of Transportation Director, Institute for Public Administration Studies, University of Delaware (DelDOT) and IPA. Bill Swiatek, WILMAPCO

ii Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Table of Contents Step Two: The Walkability Assessment Checklist . . 33 Let’s Get Walking ...... 9 Using the Checklist ...... 33 Introduction...... 1 Step Three: Pedestrian Facilities: Path Forward ...... 9 Why Walk?...... 1 Design and Conditions ...... 33 Promote an Activity-Friendly Environment. 1 Step One: Preparing for the Workshop Crosswalks and Intersections ...... 36 Foster Active Transportation...... 1 and Walk...... 10 Comfort and Appeal ...... 37 Support U.S. Surgeon General’s Call Conduct a Debriefing and The Walkability Assessment Mapping Exercise...... 38 to Action for Walkability ...... 2 Questionnaire...... 11 Priority Issues...... 39 Ensure Transportation Equity ...... 2 Review Plans...... 12 Pedestrian Facility: Benefits of Walkable Communities. . . . 4 Identify and Engage Stakeholders . . . . 13 Design and Conditions ...... 39 Safety Benefits...... 4 Target Area for the Assessment. . . . . 14 Crossing Streets and Intersections. . . . 39 Health Benefits...... 4 Plan Logistics for the Workshop and Comfort and Appeal ...... 39 In-Field Walkability Audit ...... 15 Environmental Benefits ...... 4 Schedule Workshop...... 15 Step Three: Path Forward...... 40 Transportation Benefits...... 5 Pre-Tour the Selected Area...... 15 Identify and Prioritize Concerns . . . . . 40 Economic Benefits ...... 5 Select a Workshop Location...... 15 Prepare a Written Summary ...... 40 Delaware’s Policy Framework ...... 6 Gather Workshop Materials...... 16 Present Findings to:...... 40 Policies Supporting Walkability...... 6 Confirm Workshop Participants Meeting Preparation...... 41 Safe Routes to School...... 6 Attendance...... 16 Gain Support and Strengthen Partnerships ...... 42 Complete Streets...... 6 Visual Prompts...... 17 Provide Outreach and Education . . . . .44 Vulnerable Road Users Law...... 7 What to Look For on Your Walk . . . . . 17 Stay Engaged ...... 44 Walkable, Bikeable Delaware...... 7 Safety ...... 17 Commitment to Accessible Transportation .7 Accessibility...... 23 Resources...... 45 Strategic Highway Safety Plan...... 8 Connectivity ...... 26 Glossary of Healthy Community Terms . . 45 Purpose and Overview of the Walk Appeal ...... 29 Online Resources ...... 50 Assessment Tool ...... 9 Step Two: Let’s Get Walking! ...... 31 Purpose...... 9 Facilitate the Workshop...... 31 Overview...... 9 Explain Use of the Walkability Assessment Step One: Checklist ...... 32 Preparing for the Workshop and Walk . . .9

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool iii Introduction

Why Walk? Foster Active Transportation Promote an Activity-Friendly Active transportation is any human-powered mode of transportation. Pedestrian Environment infrastructure and facilities that are well Physical inactivity has increasingly become designed, constructed, and maintained a product of America’s automobile-centric, can promote active transportation. Due to built environment. The U.S. Department safety concerns raised by vehicular traffic of Health and Human Services’ 2008 and inadequate pedestrian and biking Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans facilities, individuals are frequently reluctant recommends that children be physically to use alternative modes of transportation. active for at least 60 minutes a day and According to the Centers for Disease Control adults get 30 minutes of moderate- and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Transportation intensity aerobic activity daily, five days Health Impact Assessment Toolkit, providing a week. Yet, most Americans don’t meet safe and convenient opportunities for active these recommended guidelines; and that transportation also promotes transportation lack of activity is posing a great threat equity for people who don’t drive or own to the health of our nation. According to cars. Active Living Research, activity-supportive CDC’s Toolkit states that investing in built environments not only increase walkable communities can “increase the physical activity but also foster a variety comfort of the on-road experience and Walking is the easiest and of co-benefits. Creating activity-friendly improve the appeal of active modes [of most affordable way to environments has been correlated to improve physical activity and transportation] for all people.” promote healthier lifestyles. positive changes in chronic illness, safety/ injury prevention, mental health, social benefits, economic benefits, traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions.

1 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Support U.S. Surgeon General’s • Planning of public transit and cycling Call to Action for Walkability infrastructure, which can extend the range that an average person can walk. In September 2015, the U.S. Surgeon General announced a new public health Ensure Transportation Equity initiative entitled, “Step It Up! The Surgeon Walking and Transportation Accessibility General’s Call to Action to Promote Walking and Walkable Communities,” aimed at Everyone is a pedestrian! Most trips by preventing chronic illness through active car, transit, or bike begin by walking. Many lifestyles centered on walking. The initiative roads are designed with only cars in mind, is ultimately aimed at promoting walking as but at least one-third of Americans do not a simple way to increase physical activity, drive, including children, adolescents, many which is proven to promote positive older adults, people with disabilities, and mental health, support healthy aging, and low-income individuals. Many non-driving prevent chronic disease risk favors such as Delawareans face difficulties navigating high blood pressure and weight gain. The pedestrian-unfriendly areas. In Delaware, Surgeon General’s call to action focuses on: 22% of residents are under the age of • Designing communities to make 18, 15.9% are over the age of 65, 12% are walking to work, school, shops, and persons with disabilities, and 7.4% have other destinations an attractive and no access to vehicles. In addition, walking convenient option; is often the critical “first- and last-mile” connection for people who rely on public • Designing transportation systems Everyone is a pedestrian! transportation. This includes economically Most trips by car, transit, or with sidewalks, crosswalks, and disadvantaged individuals who do not bike begin by walking. infrastructure to improve public health own cars, people who do not drive, and/or and enhance pedestrian safety; persons with disabilities. Creating walkable, • Educating communities on the benefits safe, and pleasant pedestrian areas of walking and physical activity; and creates transportation equity for mobility- constrained and special-needs populations.

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 2 Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 is a civil rights law that pertains to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability. Title II of ADA requires state and local governments to make all public facilities and services readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities and to address barriers to community services, transportation, and facilities. The policy on accessibility issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) states, Accessibility is a civil right. The key function of transportation, at its most fundamental level, is to provide basic mobility to Slick and snowy sidewalks are both a safety and an accessibility issue. For more information, please see IPA’s publication: Winter Maintenance society. It is our responsibility of Pedestrian Facilities in Delaware: A Guide for Local Governments. to strive to ensure that transportation systems are not In 2011, the U.S. Access Board issued other public walkways. To achieve ADA proposed guidelines to ensure that states compliance, local governments must only safe and efficient, and local governments conduct accessible complete an ADA self-evaluation to identify but also usable by all—including design, construction, and maintenance, of barriers to accessibility, prioritize actions persons with disabilities. all pedestrian facilities in the public right- to address the barriers, and set forth a of-way. Pedestrian facilities include public Transition Plan with steps necessary to sidewalks, shared-use paths, trails, curb complete modifications identified through ramps, crosswalks, pedestrian islands, or self-evaluation.

3 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Benefits of Walkable Communities

Safety Benefits Delaware was the most dangerous state in America to be a pedestrian, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Nearly three pedestrians died in traffic accidents per 100,000 residents in 2012. Over a quarter of all traffic fatalities in Delaware involve pedestrians. Studies show that walkable neighborhoods have much lower rates of traffic fatalities

compared with automobile-oriented areas. ) Health Benefits Source: The State of Obesity, Better Policies for a Healthier America, Sept. 2015 ( stateofobesity.org According to the 2015 annual “State of Obesity” report, Delaware is the 17th most Delaware is the 17th most obese state in the U.S. and has the 20th highest obese state in the U.S. and has the 20th childhood obesity rate in the nation highest childhood obesity rate in the nation. Fewer than 28% of Delawareans meet the standing. One quarter of all trips in the U.S. minimum guidelines for moderate physical Environmental are one-mile or less, yet most of these trips activity. Walking is the easiest and most Benefits are taken by car. Creating diverse travel affordable way to improve physical activity options, which are safe and accessible and promote healthier lifestyles. Walking Delaware is the 25th least energy inefficient for everyone, can promote increased use can help people exercise by accident. While state in the country. Since transportation of sustainable modes of transportation walking, people can become more physically is responsible for one third of all U.S. (e.g., walking, cycling, and transit) that are active, without even realizing it! greenhouse gas emissions, encouraging associated with environmental benefits walkable communities in Delaware would related to greenhouse gas emissions, greatly benefit the state’s environmental stormwater runoff, and water quality.

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 4 expenses associated with owning and Transportation operating cars. As society becomes Benefits more focused on creating sustainable communities, walkable neighborhoods will Providing a variety of multi-modal be in higher demand. A recent study by transportation choices, such as walking, the Brookings Institute provides evidence Launched in 2004, the can help reduce traffic congestion, lower that “neighborhoods with environmental Complete Streets movement aims to better integrate road maintenance costs, improve air quality, features that facilitate walkability and people and place into and achieve a multi-modal transportation attract pedestrians have higher office, the planning, design, system consistent with the national and maintenance of residential, and retail rents, retail revenues, transportation networks. Complete Streets movement and state and higher value residential for-sale policy. Delawareans take more than 10.2 properties,” signaling increased sales million passenger trips each year on buses, opportunities. A higher Walk Score can commuter trains, and other forms of transit. increase a property’s value anywhere from Complete Streets can promote a balanced $4,000 to $34,000 for a residential property transportation system and make walking or from 9% to 54% per square foot for a to transit a viable option. In addition, it commercial property, depending on the is cheaper to redesign existing roads to level of change in walkability. This economic accommodate multi-modal travel than growth in the real estate sector will result in to construct new, multi-lane, fast-speed higher collectible property-tax revenue that highways that benefit only motorized travel can be reinvested into a community. Surveys and increase traffic capacity. by the National Association of REALTORS® show a growing preference for communities Economic Benefits with amenities such as a mix of housing types, various destinations within walking AAA estimates that the average household distance, public transportation options, and This Brookings Institute cost to own and operate one car in the study found that, “More less parking. Market demand for walkable walkable places perform U.S. is nearly $9,000 per year. Walkable places may outpace availability in some better economically.” communities allow families to reduce urban areas.

5 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Delaware’s Policy Framework

DelDOT to provide grants to schools and Governor Jack Markell issued Executive Policies Supporting school districts that demonstrate need Order Number Six in April 2009 for the Walkability for transportation reform measures, can state to create and implement a Complete provide plans that have the potential Streets policy. Subsequently, the Delaware Consistent with federal transportation to secure child safety, encourage travel Department of Transportation (DelDOT) investment policies and directives, the to school by walking or biking, and released its Complete Streets policy in Delaware Department of Transportation promote community involvement in that January 2010. The policy requires DelDOT (DelDOT) has shifted from away from an process. Each participating school’s plan to consider all modes of transportation, auto-centric transportation system to one is encouraged to include engineering, particularly active modes of transportation, that provides safe, efficient, and multi- education, enforcement, encouragement, in its development and scoping phases of modal options. The State of Delaware and evaluation considerations in either construction to ensure that all infrastructure has consistently funded transportation infrastructure (e.g., sidewalks, crosswalks, users are considered in the design and improvements and supported programs that traffic calming, bicycle facilities) or non- maintenance of its transportation system. support walking, biking, and transit usage. infrastructure (e.g., planning, hiring of SRTS coordinators, education, enforcement Safe Routes to School programs) components. In an effort to encourage Complete Streets safe travel for children to and from school A complete street is a transportation facility Use this guide to through the Safe that is planned, designed, operated, and evaluate the extent to which your Routes to School (SRTS) maintained to provide safe mobility for community’s vision, program, the Delaware users of all ages and abilities including plans, policies, design General Assembly passed Senate Bill standards, and facility bicyclists, pedestrians, transit riders, and maintenance practices 353 in September 2002. The bill directs motorists, appropriate to the function and are consistent with DelDOT to seek federal funds to implement context of the facility. Complete streets complete-streets principles. pedestrian safety measures and traffic facilitate active transportation. calming strategies. It also authorizes

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 6 Vulnerable Road Users Law

The Vulnerable Road Users Law was enacted by Senate Bill 269 and approved by Governor Jack Markell in August 2010, making Delaware the second state in the nation to enact such a law. The law defines vulnerable roadway users to include pedestrians, road maintenance crews, cyclists, skateboarders, rollerbladers, and those traveling by means of moped, motorcycle, farm vehicle, and animal. In addition to defining this classification, the law imposes stricter penalties and a conviction of inattentive driving if a motorist injures or kills a vulnerable user.

Walkable, Bikeable Delaware Governor Markell signs the Vulnerable Road Users Law The Delaware General Assembly on August 12, 2010. unanimously passed the “Walkable, Bikeable Delaware” Resolution in May 2011 to support effort to connect destination-oriented Commitment to Accessible the goal of “linking cities and towns by a population centers. Since 2011, the Delaware Transportation network of off-alignment multi-use paths General Assembly and the Wilmington that can be used by commuters in addition Area Planning Council (WILMAPCO) have Title II of ADA requires that public entities to recreational pedestrians and bicyclists.” invested considerable state and federal (including state and local governments) The legislation enables DelDOT to allocate funding in statewide pedestrian and bicycle make public facilities, programs, and funds to infrastructure investments in improvements, greenways, and trails services accessible to persons with walkway and bikeway networks in an projects. disabilities. As a provider of public

7 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool transportation services and programs, a multi-agency approach that utilizes and as a state transportation agency, education, enforcement, engineering, DelDOT must comply with ADA Title II and emergency services strategies,” with and is committed to providing compliant the ultimate goal of reducing the fatality pedestrian accessibility for everyone. rate to 1:100 million vehicle miles traveled by 2018. In addition, Governor Markell’s Sidewalks, street crossings, and other 2015 Executive Order Number Fifty-Four elements in the public right-of-way can pose establishes an advisory council on walking challenges to accessibility. The U.S. Access and pedestrian awareness in an effort to Board has issued Accessibility Guidelines reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities. that focus mainly on facilities on sites. Yet, additional guidance is necessary to address “Walk Smart” Campaign conditions and constraints unique to public The “Walk Smart” Campaign is a rights-of-way. In 2014, DelDOT conducted partnership between the Office of Highway its ADA Self-Assessment to identify barriers Safety, DelDOT, and local and state law to accessibility, and subsequently released enforcement to provide education to an ADA Transition Plan. In January 2016, communities about the importance of safe DelDOT issued its Pedestrian Accessibility pedestrian travel practices and to utilize Standards for Facilities in the Public Right of heavier law enforcement of motor vehicle Way or “DelDOT Pedestrian Standards.” The behavior in areas with high pedestrian standards combine into one document the crash data. The Office of Highway Safety requirements, guidelines, and best practices provides materials for DelDOT to distribute for accessible pedestrian facilities in the to municipalities interested in participating public transportation right-of-way. in the campaign. “Walk Smart” Campaign Strategic Highway Safety Plan poster to encourage safe pedestrian travel practices The Delaware Strategic Highway Safety Plan: Toward Zero Deaths aims to “eliminate fatalities on Delaware’s roadways through

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 8 Purpose and Overview of the Assessment Tool

TOOL TIP Purpose Overview The Walkability Assessment Tool provides a glossary that may be The Walkability Assessment Tool Step One: Preparing for used to familiarize workshop leaders provides municipalities with guidelines the Workshop and Walk and workshop participants with any for evaluating walkability and unfamiliar terms. See page 45. considering strategies to improve local Advanced preparation ensures the success pedestrian networks. of the assessment process. This step identifies and engages stakeholders in The Walkability Assessment Checklist evaluating the walkability of an area or enables participants to record their specific neighborhood within a jurisdiction. observations while walking and talking It provides a Walkability Assessment during the audit. Upon completing the Questionnaire to address the “who, what, in-field walkability audit, participants why, when, how, and where” in planning immediately reconvene in a facilitated workshop logistics. A series of visual workshop setting for an interactive mapping prompts are provided that correspond to exercise to build consensus and develop an an online, narrated presentation. These action plan for improvements. The assessment tool and three-step prompts will help participants prepare for process is designed for use in a facilitated and understand what to look for during the Step Three: workshop setting to engage stakeholders. in-field walkability audit. It is recommended that the workshop be Path Forward organized and facilitated by a designated Step Two: After the audit, work with the stakeholder workshop leader/facilitator who is an Let’s Get Walking group to prioritize recommendations, authorized representative of a Delaware prepare a written summary, present local government (e.g., planner, consultant, Begin the workshop with a brief orientation findings, gain support, and develop an municipal staff member) and involve a and narrated presentation on “The In-Field action plan that considers the need for diverse group of stakeholders. Walkability Audit: An Overview of What to plans, policies, design changes, funding Look For” to familiarize participants with support, maintenance plans/agreements, what to look for during the walk. technical assistance, and outreach/ education.

9 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Preparing for the Workshop and Walk

from community destinations and public Step One transit, pedestrian infrastructure and the The first step of the walkability assessment built environment)? process is to complete a Walkability • When should the workshop and in-field Assessment Questionnaire to clarify walkability audit be conducted? the municipality’s goals and objectives • Where is the area targeted for the in- related to walkability. The purpose of the field walkability audit? questionnaire is to address the following: • How does the jurisdiction plan • Who will lead the jurisdiction’s to conduct outreach and engage walkability assessment efforts (i.e., stakeholders? How will outcomes of the who will facilitate/conduct the process workshop and walkability assessment and review and share outcomes; what process be used to build support for department(s) will be represented)? infrastructure improvements? • What are the municipality’s major issues or concerns regarding the walkability A representative of the municipality should of its community (e.g., sidewalk issues, complete the questionnaire, with input from connectivity among destinations, stakeholders and prospective workshop accessibility of walking paths or trails, participants, prior to scheduling the workshop and in-field walkability audit. safe routes to school, pedestrian Workshop participant safety)? views maps of targeted The Walkability Assessment Questionnaire audit area. • Why should the municipality conduct begins on the next page. a walkability assessment (e.g., consider strategies to improve pedestrian safety, non-motorized transportation opportunities, multi- modal transportation strategies, mobility and accessibility for people of all ages and abilities, connectivity to/

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 10 The Walkability Assessment Questionnaire

Completed by Title Date

Entity Email Phone

1. Why should the municipality conduct the walkability assessment?

2. To what extent does the town/city currently educate or provide information to its citizens on healthy community resources (e.g., newsletters, websites, flyers, social media)?

3. What is the Walk Score® of the area(s) that are being considered for audit? It will be helpful to compare the area’s Walk Score® to outcomes of the in-field walkability audit and workshop.

4. Will the results of this assessment be incorporated into any future plans, policies, or budgets (e.g., comprehensive plan, Complete Streets policy, ADA transition plan, municipality’s operating and/or capital budget)?

11 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Do goals, objectives, and recommendations qq Has the jurisdiction conducted an ADA Review Plans within the comprehensive plan, and other self-evaluation and/or prepared an ADA Local government comprehensive plans planning documents, address the need to: transition plan? are the foundation for land use planning qq Provide a well-connected, continuous qq If so, have those documents been in Delaware. The comprehensive plan grid of streets, pedestrian facilities, reviewed with respect to the area to communicates a community’s goals and transit, and bicycle facilities that enables be evaluated during this walkability vision for the future, provides a blueprint a range of alternative transportation assessment? for future land use, and provides guidance options, modes, and routes? for establishing the laws, policies, and qq Has DelDOT’s ADA Inventory and q programs to achieve implementation. As q Start or enhance a Safe Routes to School Assessment Application been reviewed described in Healthy Communities: The Program? to identify locations of pedestrian Comprehensive Plan Assessment Tool, the qq Institute Complete Streets principles facilities located in the DelDOT right- comprehensive plan—particularly relevant to provide multi-modal transportation of-way that have been inventoried and maps and the transportation and recreation options for people of all ages and evaluated for ADA compliance? elements—should be reviewed prior to the abilities? qq Has the jurisdiction identified potential workshop and in-field audit. qq Adopt policy initiatives or design ADA barriers within the public right- Title II of the Americans with Disabilities guidelines to increase physical activity, of-way—including curbs, sidewalks, Act (ADA) of 1990 requires public entities active transportation, and recreation pedestrian crossings, pedestrian signals, to complete a self-evaluation of services, opportunities? shared-use paths, parking lots, and bus policies, and practices to identify barriers stops? q to accessibility, prioritize actions to address q Identify and address public policy or the barriers, and set forth a schedule community design barriers that inhibit for those actions. If the jurisdiction has creating a safer walking environment, conducted a self-evaluation and/or prepared human-scaled design practices, mixed- a transition plan, those documents should use and compact development? be reviewed with respect to the area to be qq Provide for a well-designed, accessible, evaluated during the walkability assessment. and maintained pedestrian circulation system that enhances walk appeal?

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 12 Other jurisdictions may wish to consider qq Has the jurisdiction identified and Identify and Engage forming an ad hoc committee consisting engaged a diverse group of stakeholders Stakeholders of stakeholders and volunteers who are to participate in the assessment process interested in improving the walkability of a and workshop—including professionals, Public involvement is a fundamental part specific neighborhood or district. state and local officials, and citizen of the walkability assessment process. representatives? Stakeholders should be identified and In either case, additional outreach q engaged throughout the process. should be conducted to make sure q Has the jurisdiction conducted outreach participants are diverse and represent to include community members that Participants in the assessment process community interests. Stakeholders should have special needs (e.g., individuals and workshop will vary, depending on the include (1) professionals from the local with mobility issues, visual or hearing size and composition of the jurisdiction government, public safety agencies, health impairments, persons with disabilities and outreach effort. Larger municipalities organizations, DelDOT, metropolitan or transportation-disadvantaged may already have a standing committee planning organizations (MPOs), and local populations, such as non-car or planning commission that is working to media; (2) state and local elected/appointed households, non-drivers, children, older improve a community’s overall health and officials including state legislators, mayor adults, low-income individuals)? walkability. and council members, planning commission qq Does the targeted stakeholder group members, and committee representatives; consist of approximately 20 to 40 and (3) citizen stakeholders including people? special-needs and vulnerable populations, representatives of health and safety qq Do stakeholders include potential advocacy groups, bicycle and recreation TOOL TIP champions who will build support For Walkable Community Workshop enthusiasts, local school leaders, and advocacy for plans, policies, Resources, including a sample neighborhood civic association leaders, funding, and technical assistance to invitation, agenda, and press release citizen organization representatives, and improve pedestrian infrastructure and visit www.wilmapco.org/walkable/. local business representatives. conditions?

13 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool qq Defined areas around a specific qq Routes between destinations or groups Target Area for the destination (e.g., school, library, post of destinations (e.g., school and local Assessment office, community center, park) or group park or playground). Specify: of destinations (e.g., commercial center, Is there a specific area, neighborhood, or downtown area). Specify: street segment within the town or city that is targeted for the walkability assessment?

For its Walkability Community Workshops, WILMAPCO recommends aiming for a route length of no more than six blocks for a “walking and talking” time of qq Known problem areas for pedestrians approximately one hour. (e.g., locations of traffic accidents qq A neighborhood, as defined by involving pedestrians; roadways with geographic (place-oriented) boundaries high traffic speed and/or volumes; and or social (people-oriented) components. areas that pose potential conflicts with Specify: motor vehicles, have large intersections, lack mid-block crossings, have low pedestrian visibility, insufficient pedestrian infrastructure, lack accessible features, and have gaps in connectivity to pedestrian networks or other transportation modes). Specify:

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 14 Schedule Workshop qq Provide tables and chairs arranged Plan Logistics for the to facilitate a mapping exercise for qq What season, day of the week, and time break-out groups of 6–8 people Workshop and should the workshop be held? following the in-field walkability In-Field Walkability audit? Audit Pre-Tour the Selected Area qq Permit serving of refreshments for qq Are there locations along the route workshop participants? When scheduling the workshop consider where the group should stop to make qq Has the workshop been scheduled and what will be examined during the audit. critical observations? For example, if a primary concern is publicized at least 4–6 weeks in advance walkability for a Safe Routes to School of the event? qq Has the route length been tested? initiative, the audit should be conducted qq Have the workshop participants been WILMAPCO aims for a route length of no when children ride to or from school rather invited to participate at least 4–6 weeks more than six blocks for a walking and a than a weekend or during evening hours. in advance of the workshop? Also consider seasonal issues (e.g., snow, talking time of approximately 1 hour. freezing, flooding, vegetation overgrowth, qq Has contact information been provided or encroachment onto pedestrian facilities). Select a Workshop Location for participants to RSVP? qq Has a public workshop venue been Once an area has been selected for the qq Will participation by a public body (e.g., selected and reserved that is near the audit, a pre-tour—or physically walking municipality’s elected or appointed selected walkability audit route? the area in advance of the workshop—may officials) generate a quorum? If so, the be conducted with volunteers and key Does the workshop venue: workshop must be publicly advertised at representatives of the jurisdiction. least 7 days in advance to meet Freedom qq Meet ADA accessibility requirements? of Information Act (FOIA) requirements. Ideal public venues for the workshop Check with the municipal clerk or qq Allow for set up of video presentation include town halls, firehouses, libraries, solicitor for jurisdiction-specific FOIA to be shown prior to the in-field senior centers, schools, or community procedures. walkability assessment or have meeting rooms. Internet connectivity if the online version is streamed from YouTube?

15 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Gather Workshop Materials qq Masking tape to hang completed large- qq Enlist volunteers (or key committee scale maps members/staff) to arrive at the Have the following materials been prepared workshop at least 45 minutes early qq Sign-in sheet in advance to bring to the workshop? to help greet and sign in participants, qq IPA’s narrated video presentation, “The qq Agendas distribute handouts, and set up In-Field Walkability Audit: An Overview materials and refreshments. qq Clipboards of What to Look For.” The presentation qq Recruit volunteers for key roles (such as should be downloaded in advance from qq Name tags in-field group leaders, photographers, IPA’s Delaware Complete Communities q and note takers). Planning Toolbox. If Internet is available q Safety vests at the venue, the video may be accessed qq Cameras qq Provide an electronic copy of the on Complete Communities YouTube workshop agenda and “The Walkability Channel. qq Easels with pads Assessment Tool Visual Prompts: What to Look For on Your Walk” (see next qq Projector and screen to display the qq Refreshments section). narrated presentation qq One Walkability Assessment Checklist qq One letter-sized (8.5-in. x 11-in.) street (described in Step 2) for each participant map for each participant, which shows to document observations during the the selected route, to be used during in-field walkability audit. TOOL TIP the in-field audit.Google Maps is Visit the Walkable recommended. Confirm Workshop Participants Communities section of IPA’s Delaware Complete Attendance qq One table-sized, large-scale map Communities Planning Toolbox qq Affirm the date, time, and location of the for a downloadable version of (1-in. = 200 ft. preferred) of the audit the video presentation, area, for each group of 6–8 people, workshop. “The In-Field Walkability Audit: An Overview of What to be used during the workshop’s qq Remind participants to wear to Look For.” interactive mapping exercise comfortable shoes and clothing qq Colored markers, stickers, and pens to appropriate for the weather. mark up the table-sized map

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 16 Visual Prompts

TOOL TIP What to Look For on A walkability assessment does not replace the need for an ADA Self- Your Walk Assessment and Transition Plan, required by USDOT Implementing The purpose of this section is to help Regulations (49 CFR 27) and DOJ workshop participants recognize common Implementing Regulations issues with pedestrian environments that (28 CFR 35). contribute to safety, connectivity, access, and mobility issues. Safety Participants should note that pedestrian Creating safe and walkable communities infrastructure and transportation requires the proper design, construction, facilities are not designed to be “one-size- and maintenance of pedestrian facilities fits” all. Pedestrian infrastructure and in the public right-of-way. Sidewalks, facilities should be planned, designed, crosswalks, pedestrian signals, curb ramps and constructed to respect and consider and other pedestrian facilities must be the adjacent land use, landscape, and safe and readily accessible to and usable roadway contexts for urban, suburban, by people of all ages and abilities. Because and rural settings. Therefore, a walkability most trips by transit begin by walking, the assessment should consider the need for lack of continuous sidewalks, pedestrian “context-sensitive solutions.” This considers lighting, and maintenance can present both the existing and future context of challenges to transit users. Providing During the walkability transportation and land use as well as assessment, observe the safe “first- and last-mile” connections— balances the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, common street safety issues. or pedestrian travel to/from public transit users, and motorists. Proper sidewalk transportation—is paramount to boosting maintenance is just as important as correct transit ridership. During the walkability design and construction techniques. assessment, observe the common street safety issues, which appear to be lacking in photo examples that follow.

17 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 1. Street Safety Issues

Buffers Between Lighting Speed-Management Traffic and Pedestrians

Is the area well lit, with pedestrian- Is there regulatory or warning signage, Are there buffers between sidewalks scaled lighting fixtures that provide traffic-control devices, or traffic and the roadway (e.g., landscaping, a sense of safety and security to calming measures (e.g., roundabouts, street furniture, on-street parking, pedestrians? curb extensions, roadway narrowing bike lanes) to provide space between treatments, road diets, or on-street vehicles and pedestrians to enhance parking) to moderate high-speed traffic? safety and comfort levels?

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 18 2. Sidewalk Safety Issues

Presence Continuous Obstructions

Are well-designed and maintained Are sidewalk networks continuous, Are sidewalks free from signs, garbage sidewalks present on both sides of the accessible, and free from gaps to cans, cones, vehicles, poles, vegetation, street? ensure mobility for all pedestrians— and other objects that restrict access including those with visual impairments and prohibit pedestrians from traveling or physical disabilities? Do pedestrian safely along the sidewalk? networks provide first- and last-mile transit connectivity?

19 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Surface Maintenance Winter Maintenance

Are sidewalk surfaces stable, firm, Does both the design and maintenance Is there adequate winter maintenance of level, slip resistant, and separated from of pedestrian facilities (e.g., sidewalks, accessible pedestrian facilities? motorized traffic? Are sidewalks free of curb ramps, crosswalks, pedestrian cracks and obstructions, aligned, and islands, transit stops, trails) provide easy to navigate? accessible routes that are continuous, in good repair, and unobstructed?

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 20 3. Crosswalk Issues

Presence Markings Crosswalk Position

Does the pedestrian environment Is each crosswalk effectively designed Does each corner have curb ramps provide marked crosswalks, used with correct layout of pedestrian aligned with crosswalks? Do curb in combination with traffic calming elements? Are high-visibility crosswalk ramps have detectable warnings (e.g., measures and signalization/signage, markings used to guide pedestrians and truncated domes) for persons with low to provide safe crossing areas for alert drivers to a crossing location? vision and/or visual impairments? pedestrians?

21 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool www.delawareonline.com Credit: Accessible Pedestrian Islands Crosswalk APS Timing Pedestrian Signals (APS)

On wider streets, is there a pedestrian Do signals have visual (Walk/Don’t Do crosswalks have appropriate APS island on the median strip to provide Walk), audible tones (count-down signal phasing for pedestrians to safely a refuge area for pedestrians crossing indicators), and speech messages? cross streets? streets? Is a mid-block crossing, or Is the physical design, location, and a pedestrian bulb-out (e.g., curb placement of the pedestrian signal extensions) provided to minimize device accessible? pedestrian exposure to traffic when crossing?

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 22 Accessibility 1. Sidewalk Design and Accessibility Issues In addition to good design and safe accommodation, accessibility is an intrinsic part of planning, retrofitting, constructing, and maintaining pedestrian facilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II requires public entities (state and local governments) to ensure that all public facilities and services are barrier free and readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.

Width Cross Slopes

Are sidewalks at least 5-feet wide to Do driveway grades across sidewalks accommodate two pedestrians walking (i.e., cross slopes) provide a level side-by-side, or a person using a mobility crossing for pedestrians and those using device such as a wheelchair? mobility devices? Changes in cross slope within the sidewalk corridor should meet ADA requirements.

23 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool In 2011, the U.S. Access Board issued proposed guidelines that specifically address accessibility of pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way and DelDOT Pedestrian Standards were issued in 2016. The guidelines/standards ensure that sidewalks, pedestrian street crossings, pedestrian signals, and other facilities for pedestrian circulation and use constructed or altered in the public right-of-way by state and local governments are readily accessible to and usable by pedestrians with disabilities. While on your walk, observe the absence or presence of the following design features that facilitate accessibility for all users. Detectable Warnings Curb Ramps

Do sidewalks have level, detectable Are curb ramps placed perpendicular warnings (e.g., truncated domes) that to crosswalk intersections? Do they help people with low vision and/or visual provide a smooth transition between impairments determine the boundary the sidewalk and the street? Do other between the sidewalk and street? Is the locations need curb ramps (e.g., on- treatment even with the sidewalk to street parking, loading zones, bus stops, provide access for people using mobility and mid-block crossings)? Do landing devices? pads at the top of the curb provide a level maneuvering area for persons using assistive mobility devices?

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 24 2. Crosswalk Design and Accessibility Issues

Signalization Push Buttons Surface

Do accessible pedestrian signals (APS) Are crosswalk buttons installed at a Is the crosswalk surface (e.g., colors, communicate information about the height that is accessible to pedestrians textures, designs) delineated to ensure Walk/Don’t Walk intervals at signalized and individuals using assistive mobility public safety? Do individuals using intersections in non-visual formats to devices? assistive mobility devices easily navigate pedestrians who have low vision and/or the surface? Brick pavers or uneven visual impairments? Do signals provide surfaces may create accessibility issues visual and auditory cues? for persons with disabilities.

25 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Connectivity 1. Transit Connectivity Features In order to travel to and from a destination, an individual may walk, drive, cycle, ride transit, or in many cases—use a combination of transportation modes. To enhance first- and last-mile connectivity to transit, barriers must be identified and addressed—including ADA accessible pedestrian infrastructure, walking distance to a transit stop/station, missing or inadequate sidewalks, dangerous crossings, poor lighting, and perceived safety/security issues. During the in-field walkability audit, observe the following features that foster or impede multi-modal transportation connectivity. Shelters Information

Does the bus stop/station include a Are route and timetable information, shelter, and if so, does it include an and wayfaring maps, displayed at each ADA-accessible wheelchair bay? Is there stop to ensure that passengers are an ADA-compliant landing pad/level lift correctly informed about available area to accommodate persons using routes and destinations? assistive mobility devices? Is the shelter well-lit and located in a safe and secure location?

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 26 1. Transit Connectivity Features

Amenities Sidewalks Parking

Are other amenities (e.g., lighting, Since walking is often the “first and Are transit stops accessible from park- seating, trash receptacles, bike racks/ last mile” for transit trips, are there and-ride or other parking locations? Are storage) available? continuous, accessible, and connecting there crosswalks and curb ramps to sidewalks leading to/from the bus stop? enhance pedestrian access?

27 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 2. Intermodal Connectivity

Large Pedestrian Networks Bicycle Facilities Public Transit Connectivity

Are sidewalks connected to larger Is there access to low-stress, on-road Is there sufficient first- and last-mile pedestrian networks and/or off-road bicycle facilities, off-road multi-use trails/ connectivity to public transit? Are multi-use trails/pathways? paths, bike sharing, and secure places to pedestrian destinations safely accessible park/store bikes? from transit stops?

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 28 2. Intermodal Connectivity Walk Appeal Designing aesthetically pleasing and comfortable walking routes greatly increases the chance that more people will choose to walk as a form of active transportation. Active Living Research indicates that economic-, social-, and public- safety benefits of specific street-scale, built environment features promote walking and biking. During the audit, participants should observe whether features are present or

www.delawareonline.com nearby that add to the comfort and appeal of an area. Credit: Credit: Technical.ly/delaware

Intercity Bus Connectivity Rail System Connectivity

Is there safe pedestrian access to Is there safe pedestrian access to private intercity bus transportation regional rail/train stations (i.e., SEPTA, (e.g., Greyhound, Megabus)? Is there Amtrak)? Is there connectivity to other connectivity to other transportation transportation modes and facilities (e.g., modes and facilities (e.g., bike sharing/ bike sharing/storage, parking, public storage, parking, public transit, private transit, private transportation and/or transportation and/or ride-sharing ride-sharing services)? services)?

29 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 1. Ideal Walk Appeal Features

Features

Is the streetscape well designed Are streets pleasant, enjoyable, and rich Is the comfort and walk appeal achieved to incorporate safe and accessible with pedestrian amenities (e.g., street through a mix of uses, access to pedestrian facilities (e.g., sidewalks, furniture, trees and landscape design, destinations of daily living, and multi- curb ramps, crosswalks, pedestrian landscape buffers, pedestrian-scaled modal connectivity? islands, gathering spaces)? lighting, traffic-calming measures)?

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 30 Let’s Get Walking!

Step Two In advance of the workshop: To initiate the workshop: qq Download (on a laptop computer or qq Sign-in workshop participants; provide Facilitate the Workshop USB) the narrated presentation on name tags, copies of the agenda, 8.5-in. “The In-Field Walkability Audit: An x 11-in. street maps, and the Walkability The facilitated workshop setting provides an Overview of What to Look For.” It is Assessment Checklists. opportunity for participants to observe and available online on IPA’s Delaware qq Make introductions and explain the record walkability issues within a specific Complete Communities Planning Toolbox purpose of the workshop, roles of area that has been pre-selected in advance and Complete Communities YouTube participants, and agenda. of the workshop. Once participants arrive, Channel. sign-in, and informal introductions are made, qq Show the narrated presentation “The the designated workshop leader/facilitator One hour before the workshop: In-Field Walkability Audit: An Overview should show the narrated presentation qq Set up the equipment to show the of What to Look for.” and explain the process for observing narrated presentation. and documenting conditions during the Prior to the conducting the in-field in-field walkability audit. The audit allows qq Arrange tables and chairs to walkability audit: participants to evaluate actual walkability accommodate 6–8 people; provide one qq Address questions regarding the conditions of the selected area, and “walk large-scale map at each table. narrated presentation and what to and talk” about observations with workshop qq Arrange easels with pads to take notes observe. leaders and participants. It is followed by during the interactive mapping exercise. an interactive mapping exercise that allows qq Distribute reflective safety vests. participants to share ideas and viewpoints, qq Set up a table for refreshments and a qq Introduce the Walkability Assessment connect with other stakeholders, document table to sign in/provide handouts to Checklist (see page 33), procedures current walkability conditions, gain new workshop participants. for conducting the in-field walkability perspectives, and build consensus about audit, and the plan to reconvene improvement strategies. immediately following the in-field audit for a debriefing and mapping exercise.

31 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Explain Use of the Walkability Assessment Checklist

The Walkability Assessment Checklist is designed as a downloadable document as part of this assessment tool. It should be printed out in color and distributed to participants at the workshop for use during the in-field audit.

During the audit of the designated area, the facilitator should ask participants to reference maps and use the checklists when considering the overall condition of pedestrian facilities.

Participants should use the checklist to document and note locations of issues Workshop participants with pedestrian facilities, crosswalks and reference maps and intersections, and comfort and appeal. The document conditions during the in-field audit. small 8.5-in. x 11-in. maps of the area can also be marked up to pinpoint problem areas Following the in-field audit, participants that may be targeted for improvements. should discuss conditions observed and Several people involved in the audit may documented on the checklists. be assigned roles. Some people may mark up a map to document issues, another may record comments or observations, and someone may serve as the photographer to capture issues or problem areas.

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 32 The Walkability Assessment Checklist

Date Jurisdiction Area Being Assessed

Using the Checklist Pedestrian Facilities: qq The sidewalk is obstructed Design and Conditions (e.g., poles, signs, shrubbery, This checklist is designed for participants trash cans) to inventory the safety and accessibility of 1. Are there sidewalks present on both qq The sidewalk is not a minimum of pedestrian facilities, connectivity to transit sides of the street? 5-feet wide to accommodate two and other transportation modes, and the qq Yes pedestrians or person using an walk appeal of the streetscape. qq No, only on one side of the street assistive mobility device Participants should observe and document (e.g., wheelchair, cane, walker) qq No, not on either side of the street on the checklist the existence, condition, qq The pedestrian network has and/or maintenance of pedestrian facilities 2. Are the sidewalks sufficient and well insufficient lighting (e.g., (e.g., sidewalks, crosswalks, median maintained? street lighting is not scaled to islands, accessible pedestrian signals, curb pedestrians, does not allow qq Yes extensions, curb ramps) and streetscape pedestrians and motorists to see amenities (e.g., trees, pedestrian lighting, qq No, some problems one another, does not enhance benches, wayfaring signage). (check all that apply): safety and security) Use the checklist to evaluate the accuracy of qq The sidewalk is not continuous the area’s Walk Score®. (has gaps)

qq The sidewalk is misaligned

qq The sidewalk has substantial cracks or maintenance issues

qq The sidewalk surface is poorly constructed

33 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 3. Do the pedestrian facilities safely Other issues and observations: 4. Is the sidewalk part of a larger accommodate people of all ages and pedestrian network? abilities (including vulnerable road qq Yes users)? qq No, some problems qq Yes (check all that apply): qq No, some problems Locations of problems: qq Sidewalk network is not (check all that apply): continuous or has gaps qq Sidewalk surfaces are qq Sidewalks lack connectivity to problematic (unstable, uneven pedestrian facilities, adjacent not firm, or non-slip resistant) neighborhoods, community- qq Changes in cross slope within the oriented destinations, multi-use sidewalk corridor (e.g., driveways trails/paths, transit stops crossings) do not meet ADA requirements Other issues and observations:

qq Curb ramps are not aligned with crosswalks at each intersection

qq Curb ramps do not have level, detectable warnings (e.g., truncated domes) Locations of problems: qq Curb ramps do not provide a landing pad for assistive mobility devices, or a smooth transition between the sidewalk and the street

qq The sidewalks are not wide enough

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 34 5. Which transportation facilities are 6. Does the pedestrian network 7. Is there a buffer area between the connected to the pedestrian network foster/provide first- and last-mile sidewalk and roadway? in this area? connectivity to transit? qq No qq None qq Yes qq Yes, check all that apply: qq Check all that apply: qq No, some problems (check all that qq Landscaped area (e.g., trees, apply): qq Bike facilities grass, planting strip) qq Lack of continuous and qq Off-road, multi-use trails/paths qq Street furniture connecting sidewalks to transit qq Public bus facilities stops/locations qq Bike lanes

qq Private bus facilities qq Lack of transit shelters qq On-street parking (e.g., Greyhound, Megabus) qq Transit shelters are available, but Other issues and observations: qq Train stations lack passenger amenities qq Lack of crosswalks with accessible curb ramps leading to transit stops/locations

qq Poor maintenance Locations of problems: Other issues and observations:

Locations of problems:

35 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Crosswalks and Intersections 2. Are there sufficient crosswalks at 3. Is there sufficient crosswalk intersections? signalization & timing? 1. Are streets safe and easy to cross? qq Yes qq Yes qq Yes qq No, some problems qq No qq No, some problems (check all that apply): (check all that apply): qq Crosswalks lack accessible qq Crosswalks are not located at pedestrian signals (APS) qq Road was too wide each intersection qq APS are available, but signal qq Blocked line of sight to allow for qq Crosswalks are not marked with phasing is insufficient to allow for safe street crossing (e.g., parked highly visible treatments safe crossing cars, trees, or plants blocking view of traffic) qq Crosswalks are not used in qq APS do not provide a combination combination with other traffic of visual (Walk/Don’t Walk), qq Drivers seem to be inattentive calming measures count-down indicators, and toward pedestrians audible tones/speech messages qq Mid-block crossing areas are qq Road segment lacks speed needed qq Placement of crosswalk APS management measures to button is too high or not qq Pedestrian island is needed on reduce motor vehicle speed (e.g., accessible regulatory or warning signage, median strip qq Signal timing was insufficient to traffic-control devices, or traffic qq Curb ramps are not installed allow safe crossing calming measures) perpendicular to crosswalks

Other issues and observations: qq Curb ramps do not have Other issues and observations: detectable warnings (truncated domes) Locations of problems: Other issues and observations: Locations of problems:

Locations of problems:

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 36 Comfort and Appeal P N 2. How pleasant is your walk?

“Present” facilities are along the walking q q Bank Check all that apply: assessment area, while “nearby” facilities are q q q Laundry/dry cleaner q Needed more grass, flowers, or trees within a short distance (no more than one or qq Lacked sense of security two blocks) from the walking audit area. q q Indoor fitness facility/recreation center qq Not well lit 1. What destinations are present (P) or nearby (N)? q q Senior center qq Dirty, lots of litter or trash

Check all that apply: q q Playground/park/trailhead qq Lack of maintenance

P N q q School (elementary, middle, high) qq No bench or place to rest q q Small grocery/convenience store q q College/technical school/university qq Lacked sense of safety (perception q q Farmers market of high-speed traffic or crime) q q Retail stores q q Food establishment (e.g., Other issues and observations: q q Employment centers restaurant, bakery, café, coffee shop, bar) q q Smoke-free public spaces Locations of problems: q q Supermarket q q Multi-modal facilities (e.g., bus stops, train stations, bike parking/ q q Pharmacy storage, bike-sharing service, q q Hospital private transportation, and ride- sharing services) q q Health Care Clinic Facility q q Other, specify: q q Doctor’s Offices (e.g., general practitioners, dentists, specialists) ______

q q Entertainment (e.g., movie theater, arcade)

q q Church/temple/mosque

q q Library

q q Post office

37 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Conduct a Debriefing and Mapping Exercise Following the in-field audit, participants will immediately reconvene in the workshop setting for an interactive mapping exercise. Participants should break into groups of 6–8 people and go to tables set up with large-scale maps, markers, and stickers. Within each group setting, participants should discuss observations and information documented on their Walkability Assessment Checklists.

Participants can use markers and place stickers on the large-scale maps to note locations of issues, concerns, and possible Mapping exercise following improvements that may require changes in-field walkability audit in engineering, signage, policies, law enforcement, and educational programs. recommendations for improvements. Following the mapping exercise, the Collectively, agreed upon issues and ideas workshop leader/facilitator should ask each for improvements can be summarized on group to report on ideas and suggestions flip charts or notepads. for walkability improvements.

As a whole, the workshop participants can discuss conditions observed and build consensus on key issues and

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 38 The workshop leader/facilitator should 2. What were the three greatest areas pose the following questions to workshop of concern for each of the following participants to identify priority issues: Walkability Assessment Checklist categories: Priority Issues Pedestrian Facility: Design and 1. Were there unexpected problem areas Conditions or concerns identified during the walk and completion of the mapping exercise 1. that were not listed on the Walkability 2. Assessment Questionnaire (Step One)? 3.

Crossing Streets and Intersections 1. 2. 3.

Comfort and Appeal 1. 2. 3.

39 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Path Forward

• Reflect the consensus of the group in • Location – How was the area selected Step Three terms of walkability. and why? Each community is unique, and there is • Are “low-hanging fruit” or • Special needs of vulnerable and not a one-size-fits-all approach to initiate improvements that can be easily targeted populations (e.g., non-car pedestrian improvements. However, the achieved with minimal funding, households, non-drivers, children, following path forward is suggested to technical assistance, plan/ older adults, and persons with initiate plans, policies, programs, design policy changes, or engineering disabilities) improvements, and educational/outreach design (e.g., crosswalk marking, • Description of outreach effort, programs to enhance walkability. signage, signalization, education, including list of workshop enforcement). Identify and Prioritize Concerns participants • Would achieve the “most bang • Types of pre-assessment data that With assistance from professional planners, for the buck” or most impactful were used/collected consultants, and/or workshop facilitators: improvements with least investment, • Map of the low-stress bikeability– in terms of walkability. qq Compile all pre-audit data and in-field assessment area(s) audit outcomes (individual assessments, qq Establish the goals for necessary • Identification and prioritization of photos, mapping exercises). for plan, policy, community design and issues program improvements. qq Analyze all compiled information • Ideas for improvements and look for themes related to the Prepare a Written Summary • Suggested “next steps” presence, condition, and/or accessibility of the pedestrian network—including With assistance from professional planners, Present Findings to: pedestrian facility design and conditions, consultants, and/or workshop facilitators to: qq Key local and state officials crosswalks and intersections, and qq Summarize outcomes of the in-field comfort and appeal. audit/workshop. Include the following • Request to make a public qq Identify and prioritize issues that: details. presentation at the jurisdiction’s planning commission meeting, • Purpose – Why was the assessment • Require immediate attention to relevant advisory board/committee undertaken? address safety concerns. meeting(s), and council meeting.

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 40 • Arrange to meet with the local qq Entities concerned with public jurisdiction’s staff members who are safety and health Meeting Preparation involved in planning, public works, In preparation for meetings with local • Get on meeting agendas to present public safety, finance, and parks and officials and agencies, remember these tips: recreation. findings to task forces, committees, or auxiliary groups for local public • Call at least one month in advance to • Make in-person presentations to safety agencies, school boards, request time on the meeting agenda. appropriate legislative committees of community healthcare systems, and the Delaware General Assembly and/ non-profit organizations to gain • Ask how many committee members or conduct one-on-one meetings with support for education and outreach will be in attendance. Bring enough state legislators that represent the campaigns. handouts for the group. jurisdiction. qq General public via press releases, • Print or display maps at sizes qq Agencies/entities/organizations newsletter articles, social media, and referenced on page 16. Ensure the that provide technical assistance, “news” sections of local government maps are legible. funding, and/or grants. and partner websites • Arrive early and be prepared with the • Present to committees for state and/ handouts and technology you need for qq or regional Metropolitan Planning Advocacy groups your presentation. Organizations (MPOs), DelDOT, • Attend meetings and community • Stay on topic. Present the walkability DNREC’s Division of Parks and events hosted by civic or home assessment findings with emphasis Recreation. owners’ associations, bicycle on the information that is relevant to • Meet with representatives of local advocacy groups, school associations that specific organization. Do not use foundations and companies that (PTAs), nonprofit groups, faith- the meeting as a platform to discuss provide community grants. based organizations, Main Street unrelated concerns. and business-interest groups to raise awareness, engage, and recruit other interested community members.

41 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Gain Support and Strengthen • Update or revise the jurisdiction’s Partnerships ADA transition plan to describe, prioritize, and schedule physical Establish: changes needed to address accessible public rights-of-way and qq Plans pedestrian facilities—including multi- • Incorporate provisions for or shared-use paths and maintenance walkability within the transportation of accessible facilities. element of the local government’s qq Policies Comprehensive Plan. See IPA’s Healthy Communities: The • Evaluate existing policies, need Comprehensive Plan Assessment for new policies, or consistency Healthy Communities: The Comprehensive Plan Tool and the Active Living and with state policies (e.g., Complete Assessment Tool Healthy Design: A Scorecard for Streets) to ensure that transportation Comprehensive Plans for guidance. infrastructure is designed, built, • Consider the need for specialized constructed, and maintained to safely plans that emphasize safety, accommodate travelers of all ages connectivity, accessibility, and walk and abilities—including motorists, appeal, such as transportation pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit circulation–system plans, trail studies, riders. parks and recreation master plans, • Advocate policy changes to address maintenance programs, streetscape barriers to and support safe plans, and Complete Streets plans. conditions for pedestrians of all ages • Improve multimodal connections, or and abilities—including vulnerable foster interconnectivity among the road users. Active Living and Healthy state’s network of shared-use trails Design: A Scorecard for Comprehensive Plans and pathways.

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 42 qq Design standards walk, bicycle, drive, take transit, • Contact state legislators to seek and mingle. Well-designed and Community Transportation Funding • Work with DelDOT officials to seek maintained streetscapes create for small transportation projects that guidance on multi-modal facility comfortable, beautiful streets that don’t meet state agency funding design that support the state’s complement Complete Streets priorities. Complete Streets policy. principles. • Consider tying non-motorized • Ensure that pedestrian facilities • Work with partners to design improvements into already planned (including multi-use trails/paths) are safe and attractive multi-modal transportation system improvement designed to meet ADA accessibility environments near major transit projects. standards and provide accessible corridors and stations that provide • Leverage funding support for grants public rights-of-way (e.g., sidewalks, linkages for pedestrians and bicyclists or other sources from non-profit pedestrian street crossings, from origins and destinations to entities and/or private organizations. pedestrian signals, and other facilities transit. for pedestrian circulation and use qq Facility maintenance plans constructed or altered in the public qq Funding support right-of-way). • Ensure that the jurisdiction’s plans for • Seek support for pedestrian facility facility maintenance are consistent • Consider the need for context- improvements and maintenance with and complement municipal sensitive transportation solutions costs within the local jurisdiction’s maintenance agreements with that fit within the context or the annual budget and/or long-term DelDOT. road use and setting. For example capital improvement plan (CIP). traffic-calming measures can be • Ensure pedestrian infrastructure • Seek support for pedestrian facility incorporated in roadway design is well maintained and free from improvements from DelDOT or based on the use and classification of hazardous conditions/obstructions. the MPOs via federal funding the roadway (e.g., urban, suburban, • Consider seasonal and winter programs such as the Transportation and rural roadway contexts). maintenance needs. Alternatives Program (TAP), • If a streetscaping project is planned, Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality qq Technical assistance consider the need to design spaces (CMAQ), or Safe Routes to School • Contact WILMAPCO, Dover/Kent that balance needs of all roadway (SRTS). users and wherein people can safely County MPO, Salisbury/Wicomico

43 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool County MPO, and/or DelDOT for further assistance and support. Provide Outreach and Education

Education and awareness are tools that reshape the travel behavior of motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Seek support and assistance from public safety officials, advocacy groups, parks and recreation departments, and non-profit organizations to do the following: • Teach and advocate safe pedestrian behavior and proper use of pedestrian facilities. For championing the health and well-being of their communities, five Delaware municipalities • Educate motorists and enforce safe received the 2014 Delaware Recognition for Community Health Promotion from Governor Jack driving. Markell. Pictured from left to right: Senator Bethany Hall-Long; Delaware Division of Public Health Director Karyl Rattay; Town of Seaford Mayor David Genshaw; Newark City Manager Carol Houck; • Maintain and improve pedestrian Town of Fenwick Island Manager Merritt Burke IV; Governor Jack Markell; Smyrna Town Council facilities and amenities. member Andrea Rodriguez; Brian Rahmer of the Delaware Coalition for Healthy Eating and Active Living; Dover Director of Planning and Community Development Ann Marie Townshend; and • Plan for route expansion and Delaware Health and Social Services Secretary Rita Landgraf. connectivity to adjacent pedestrian routes, trails, and multi-modal facilities, Stay Engaged including transit facilities. • Support local “Safe Routes to School” Strategic actions and initiatives that engage programs that address walking safety community members, advocacy groups, for school students. local leaders, and partner agencies are more likely to be implemented. Continue working with all stakeholders to ensure that progress is achieved and sustained.

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 44 Resources

Active Transportation: Also known as ADA Transition Plans: Title II of the Glossary of Healthy Non-Motorized Transportation and Human- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of Community Terms Powered Transportation, includes walking, 1990 requires local and state government to bicycling, small-wheeled transport (skates, make all relevant services readily accessible Accessible: Accessible facilities are those skateboards, push scooters, and hand to individuals of all physical and mobility that can be reached, used, and traversed carts), and wheelchair travel. capability. As a part of this law, public by people of all ages and abilities without agencies that employ 50 or more employees difficulty. Americans with Disabilities Act are required to develop and carry out an ADA (ADA): According to its website, the Transition Plan. This document identifies Accessible Pedestrian Signals Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility needs of that particular agency, (APS): An accessible pedestrian signal and is a federal civil rights law that became and an improvement to remedy that pedestrian pushbutton is an integrated effective on July 26, 1990, in order to give problem, along with a projected time frame device that communicates information equal opportunities to individuals with for its completion. Following the adoption about the WALK and DON’T WALK intervals disabilities. It is a comprehensive civil rights of a transition plan, agencies are required at signalized intersections in non-visual law that prohibits “discrimination and to regularly update their plans to address formats (i.e., audible tones and vibrotactile ensur[es] equal opportunity for persons updated accessibility issues. surfaces) to pedestrians who are vision with disabilities in employment, state impaired or have low vision. and local government services, public Assistive Mobility Devices: Any device accommodations, commercial facilities, and designed or adapted to help people with Accessible Transportation: Under the transportation” and telecommunications. physical limitations to perform actions, ADA, the U.S. Department of Transportation Title II of ADA provides comprehensive tasks, and activities (e.g. wheelchairs, (USDOT) issues and enforces accessibility civil rights protections for “qualified crutches, or canes). standards for transportation facilities individuals with disabilities.” The Title II that are based on the U.S. Access Board’s Bicycle Facilities: Facilities designed to regulation covers “public entities,” which ADA Accessibility Guidelines. The U.S. accommodate bicycle travel for recreational include any state or local government and Access Board has also issued technical or commuting purposes. Bikeways are not any of its departments, agencies, or other requirements for Pedestrian Access Routes necessarily separated facilities (such as instrumentalities. to ensure ADA Title II compliance by public off-road paths), but may be designed to be entities. shared and operated along with other travel

45 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool modes (such as painted on-road bike lanes Sustainable and Resilient. Explore the online population of over 2,000 are required to or sufficiently wide shoulders with bicycle Delaware Complete Communities Planning develop and adopt a comprehensive plan. signage). Toolbox to learn more about planning tools, community design tools, and public Connectivity: A measure of how well Buffer:The area between the outside engagement strategies. transportation facilities (such as roads and edge of the roadway and the roadside edge sidewalks) are connected to each other and of the sidewalk or pedestrian facility that to important destinations. provides a space between pedestrian traffic and motorized traffic; this buffer can contain Context-Sensitive Solutions: paved areas, grassy areas, or trees. Commonly referred to as CSS, Context- Sensitive Solutions is an approach to tackling Built Environment: The human-made transportation projects that seeks to include surroundings that provide the setting the unique needs of specific communities. for human activity, production, and This concept discounts a one-size-fits-all consumption. The built environment Complete Streets: Complete Streets are design of roads and streets. consists of houses, office buildings, roads, streets designed and operated to enable and entire cities. safe access for all users. Pedestrians, Crosswalk: Also known as a pedestrian bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of crossing, a crosswalk is a point on a roadway Complete Communities: Described as all ages and abilities must be able to safely that employs some means of assisting “attractive, inclusive, efficient, healthy, and move along and across a “complete” street pedestrians or other non-motorized resilient,” complete communities are more (National Complete Streets Coalition). transportation modes to safely cross the compact, provide a greater mix of land use, road. Crosswalks usually consist of some offer activity oriented destinations, foster Comprehensive Plan: A document combination of on-road paint, a crossing sociability, and promote greater economic containing text and maps that lays out signal for pedestrians, and signage warning competitiveness. The Institute for Public a municipality’s general development motorists of the presence of pedestrians. Administration (IPA) at the University strategy, position on population growth, Crosswalks are most commonly located at of Delaware has identified five elements infrastructure needs, and community signalized intersections but can be located of a Complete Community: (1) Complete issues, among other topics. In Delaware anywhere along a roadway. Streets, (2) Efficient Land Use, (3) Healthy all municipalities are required to develop and Livable, (4) Inclusive and Active, and (5) land-use plans, and municipalities with a

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 46 Curb Cut: Also known as a Curb Ramp, a Healthy Community: Individual fiscal resources of the municipality and curb cut is a short ramp installed where a behavior, such as physical activity the coordination of municipal growth, sidewalk meets a road to create a smooth participation and eating habits, is usually development, and infrastructure investment transition between the two surfaces rather considered the main determinants of actions with those of other municipalities, than a steep drop of several inches. Curb one’s physical health. However, since the counties and the State.” cuts are essential for sidewalk users such as built environment reflects a community’s Mobility: The ability to move or be moved bicyclists, pedestrians with limited mobility, opportunities for physical activity, access to from place to place (FHWA). and those using wheelchairs or strollers. healthy foods, injury prevention, and safety, it is important to consider this dimension to Multimodal: The availability of Density/Compact Development: assess a community’s health. The Toolkit for transportation options using various Density refers to the amount of dwellings or a Healthy Delaware is designed to help local modes (such as automobile, bicycle, and other buildings per acre in a particular area governments create healthy communities pedestrian) within a system or corridor of development. Higher density (compact) by developing plans, policies, community (FHWA). developments allow for a greater amount design strategies, and programs to help of activity to occur on a smaller amount residents enjoy active and healthy lifestyles. Multi-Use Trail/Path: An off-road trail or of land, thus conserving open spaces and path, paved or unpaved, intended for use natural resources. Compact development Land Use: Efficient land use is one by pedestrians, bicyclists, joggers, skaters, also creates a situation in which origins element of a complete community. The and others for recreational or transportation and destinations, such as homes and comprehensive plan is a requirement purposes. places of work, are located closer to each for all local governments in Delaware. other, allowing for more active forms of It is treated as law. The comprehensive Neighborhood: A geographical area that transportation. plan is the foundation for planning in is a subset of a larger town or city, usually Delaware. Zoning, subdivision, and other defined by shared social or architectural Detectable Warnings: (see Truncated regulatory tools are the principal means features that set it apart from adjacent Domes) for implementing the plan. Title 22, Chapter areas. 7, Section 702 of the Delaware Code Greenway: A corridor of undeveloped Paved Trail: A relatively smooth path requires Delaware municipalities to prepare land, usually including some kind of trail or covered with paving material such as comprehensive plans that “[encourage] pathway that is provided for recreational asphalt, concrete, or macadam. Paved the most appropriate uses of physical and purposes and/or environmental protection. trails can include off-road paths, such

47 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool as greenway trails, as well as sidewalks Safe Routes to School: A federally of transportation, especially through alongside a roadway. funded and state-administered program that sidewalks, regardless of an individual’s encourages local schools and jurisdictions physical capability or mobility needs. Pedestrian Facilities: Includes sidewalks, to undertake projects that will encourage crosswalks, median islands, accessible Traffic Calming:A way to design streets children to walk or bicycle to school and to pedestrian signals, curb extensions, curb using engineering principles to encourage make such trips safer. ramps, multi-use trails/paths. people to drive more slowly. Traffic calming Sidewalk: A paved walkway along the side involves physical and visual cues that induce Pedestrian Network: A continuous of a street; also the portion of a right-of-way drivers to travel at appropriate speeds sidewalk or pedestrian-facility system that intended for pedestrian use. (Kansas City Walkability Plan). allows pedestrians to make uninterrupted trips and accommodates stroller or Streetscaping: Changes to the street Traffic Signals: Electronic signaling wheelchair users to utilize the sidewalks and surrounding areas intended to devices located at road intersections to (Kansas City Walkability Plan). The USDOT improve the experience of pedestrians control competing flows of traffic. has issued a Policy Statement on Bicycle and and others using the area; streetscaping Truncated Domes: Truncated domes Pedestrian Accommodation Regulations and improvements can include changes to the are the standard design requirements for Recommendations. road cross-section, traffic management, detectable warnings that help people with sidewalk conditions, landscaping, street Public Right-of-Way: The public right- visual impairments determine the boundary furniture, and building fronts. The aesthetic of-way, or right of pedestrians or vehicles between the sidewalk and street. They are appeal elements of streetscaping include to proceed with priority along a given route small, raised domes that form a square or beautification initiatives, attractive lighting, of transportation, varies by location and radial pattern at sidewalk breaks to serve street furniture, clean streets, and outdoor situation. It is the responsibility of the local as a tactile indicator for individuals using dining, contribute to a town’s sense of place and state government to ensure accessibility assistive visual devices. (Victoria Transportation Policy Institute). considerations when altering or improving Vulnerable Road Users: In August sidewalks, pedestrian street crossings, Transportation Equity: Access to 2010, Delaware was the second state in pedestrian signals, and other facilities for safe transportation is not equal across all the nation to pass a Vulnerable Road Users pedestrian circulation and use. demographics. In order to ensure a more Law. This Bill (SB 269) amends the careless socially equitable system of transportation, or inattentive driving law by enhancing the access must be provided to all forms

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 48 penalty for a careless or inattentive driver Walk Smart Campaign: The “Walk who contributes to the serious physical Smart” Campaign is a partnership between injury of a vulnerable user in a public right- the Office of Highway Safety, DelDOT, of-way. The Bill defines vulnerable users and local and state law enforcement in public rights-of-way as a pedestrian, to provide education to communities including those persons actually engaged in about the importance of safe pedestrian work upon a highway, or in work upon utility travel practices, as well as heavier law facilities along a highway, or engaged in the enforcement of motor vehicle behavior in provision of emergency services within the areas with high pedestrian crash data. The right-of-way; a person riding an animal; or a Office of Highway Safety provides materials person operating any of the following on a for DelDOT to distribute to municipalities public right-of-way, crosswalk, or shoulder interested in participating in the campaign. of the highway: a farm tractor or similar vehicle; a skateboard; roller skates; in-line Walkability: Walkability is often measured skates; a scooter; a moped; a bicycle; or a according to the environmental, health, motorcycle. financial, and safety benefits offered to pedestrians within a community. More Walk Score®: Walk Score is a number broadly, walkability is a measure of how between 0 and 100 that measures the conducive an environment is to walking. “Walk Smart” Campaign walkability of any address (with 0 being poster to encourage safe least walkable and 100 being most pedestrian travel practices

walkable). It is based on an algorithm that ranks communities nationwide based on an area’s number of common destinations (business, restaurants, parks, schools) within walking distance of any given starting point.

49 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool Online Resources Brookings Institute Delaware Office of the Governor • Walk this Way: The Economic Promise • Executive Order Number Fifty-Four Active Living Research of Walkable Places in Metropolitan Delaware Office of Highway Safety • Making the Case for Designing Active Washington, D.C. Cities • Pedestrian Safety Centers for Disease Control and • Active Living and Healthy Design: A Prevention (CDC) Department of Justice Scorecard for Comprehensive Plans • Transportation Health Impact • Americans with Disabilities Act Title II America Walks Assessment Toolkit Regulations • Social Equity Benefits of Walking Delaware Coalition for Healthy Federal Highway Administration • Safety Benefits of Walking Eating and Active Living (DE HEAL) • FHWA Memorandum: Bicycle and • Transportation Benefits of Walking Pedestrian Facility Design Flexibility Delaware Department of • Economic Benefits of Walking Transportation (DelDOT) • Manual On Uniform Control Devices (MUTCD) • Health Benefits of Walking • Accessibility • Environmental Benefits of Walking • ADA Self-Assessment and Transition Plan Google Maps American Association of State • Delaware Complete Streets Policy Infrastructure Report Card Highway and Transportation Officials • Delaware Statewide Pedestrian Action • Delaware (AASHTO) Plan Institute of Transportation Engineers • Guide for the Planning, Design, and • Delaware Strategic Highway Safety Plan: Operation of Pedestrian Facilities Toward Zero Deaths (ITE) • Designing Walkable Urban American Council for an Energy- • DelDOT Development Coordination Manual, Chapter 5 Thoroughfares: A Context Sensitive Efficient Economy Approach • Delaware • Pedestrian Accessibility Standards for Facilities in the Public Right-of-Way

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 50 Institute for Public Administration, • State of Delaware Complete Streets State of Delaware University of Delaware Policy • Delaware Trails and Pathways • Complete Streets in Delaware: A Guide • Complete Streets Policy: A Guide for United States Access Board for Local Governments Local Governments • Shared Use Path Accessibility Guidelines • Delaware Complete Communities • Winter Maintenance of Pedestrian (SUPAG), ANPRM, and Architectural Planning Toolbox Facilities in Delaware: A Guide for Local Governments Barriers Act Accessibility Guidelines for • Americans with Disabilities Act: What Shared Use Paths Is It? National Complete Streets Coalition • Proposed Guidelines for Pedestrian • Comprehensive Plans National Highway Traffic Safety Facilities in the Public Right-of-Way • Complete Streets Administration U.S. Department of Transportation • Content-Sensitive Transportation Solutions Office of Disease Prevention and • Design Guidance Accommodating Bicycle and Pedestrian Travel: A • Local Government Steps to Achieve Health Promotion Recommended Approach ADA Compliance • Physical Activity Guidelines • Planning Glossary • Parks and Recreation Master Public Affairs Resources Planning • Policy Statement on Bicycle and • AAA: Your Driving Costs Pedestrian Accommodation Regulations • Streetscaping and Recommendations • Healthy Communities: A Resource Guide Reconnecting America • Requirements to Provide Curb Ramps for Delaware Municipalities • Walking the Walk: How Walkability • Safer People, Safer Streets Initiative • Healthy Communities: The Comprehensive Raises Home Values in U.S. Cities • Snow Removal on Sidewalks Plan Assessment Tool Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Constructed with Federal Funding • Toolkit for a Healthy Delaware • New Report Finds 23 of 25 States with • Glossary of Healthy-Community Highest Rates of Obesity are in the Terms South and Midwest • Healthy Community

51 Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool U.S. Department of Health and Human Services • Step It Up: The Surgeon General’s Call to Action Walk Score®

Sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian signals, curb ramps and other pedestrian facilities must be safe and readily accessible to and usable by people of all ages and abilities.

Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool 52 Institute for Public Administration School of Public Policy & Administration College of Arts & Sciences University of Delaware

180 Graham Hall University of Delaware Newark, DE 19716-7380 phone: 302-831-8971 e-mail: [email protected] fax: 302-831-3488 www.ipa.udel.edu

The University of Delaware’s Institute for Public Administration (IPA) addresses the policy, planning, and management needs of its partners through the integration of applied research, professional development, and the education of tomorrow’s leaders.

Please also visit our Delaware Complete Communities Planning Toolbox at http://completecommunitiesde.org.