Category: Announcement

WalkBoston statement on the Anderson Bridge Underpass

WalkBoston statement on the Anderson Bridge Underpass

WalkBoston enthusiastically supports the construction of the underpass for walkers, runners and cyclists beneath the Anderson Bridge, as well as the suggestion that evaluation of this underpass might lead to similar underpass routes beneath approaches to the River Street and Western Avenue Bridges.

Underpasses add significantly to the capacity of the riverside paths and also add to the network of off-road movement options along and across the Charles River. Capital improvements for the surface of all three bridges have been discussed in detail over the past few years and initial plans show positive agency responses to our advocacy for pedestrian movement across those bridges.

The Charles River paths are a key part of the broader transportation network. This proposal highlights the necessary interconnections and reinforces the need for DCR to receive increased funds for the maintenance of these and other riverside facilities.

Boston Globe: “Anderson bridge proposal backed” 8/5/2014

Learn more about the Charles River Conservancy’s Underpasses Advocacy Campaign.

River Paths

River Paths

River Paths

Healthy Aging Initatives Throughout the State

Healthy Aging Initatives Throughout the State

WalkBoston has Heathy Aging initiatives underway in Brookline, Fall River, Gloucester and Weymouth, training seniors in these communities to conduct audits of various walking routes. The groups are shown how to make constructive recommendations to the city about needed improvements around senior centers, schools, and near transit stops in order to improve accessibility for all residents. Thank you to Healthy City Fall River for the great pictures from last week’s training!

More Info: 

Walkability Assessments and Pedestrian Advocacy 101

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Safe Routes for Seniors and Teens in Brookline, MA

Safe Routes for Seniors and Teens in Brookline, MA

Safe Routes for Seniors and Teens, Brookline, MA

WalkBoston is currently working with a group of seniors and teens in Coolidge Corner. The group is examining areas where pedestrian accidents have occurred to make recommendations for improvements. Here are two of the group members recording vehicle speeds with radar detectors.

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Under the US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) current draft regulations, states won’t be required to distinguish between different roadway users (“motorized” and “non-motorized” users in agency language). That makes for a one-size-fits-all approach, with no room for targeted strategies to improve safety for pedestrians.

Non-motorized fatalities represent 14 – 16 % of national traffic deaths — up from 12 % just a few years ago — an alarming trend hidden in the overall decrease of traffic fatalities.

Until June 9, 2014 USDOT is accepting comments on its current draft of these rules. Tell USDOT to get serious about pedestrian safety; remind Secretary Foxx that not everyone gets lucky like he did (see his quote above).

Smart Growth America has drafted a letter that addresses pedestrians and the need for state accountability on safety – 

You can also read our comment letter on USDOT Performance Measures here, or write about the issue in your own words and send a letter to:

Secretary Foxx
U.S. Department of Transportation
Docket Operations
M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE
Washington, DC 20590