Free Walkability Tool Kit from AARP
In too many communities across Minnesota, people can’t safely walk to where they need or want to go due to a lack sidewalks, crosswalks or other safety features that make streets safe for pedestrians and drivers.
AARP’s free Walk Audit Tool Kit publication provides step-by-step instructions and checklists for examining intersections, sidewalks, driver behavior, public safety and more.
A walk audit is a simple activity in which an individual or a team observes and evaluates the walkability of a location to document how and if pedestrians can safely travel along a street, navigate an intersection and get from point A to B, C and so on.
Who can conduct a walk audit? Anyone!
Since the walk audit survey is user-directed, it can take as little or as much time as desired by, say, spending 15 minutes at one busy corner or devoting several hours to documenting several roadways in a neighborhood.
The documented results can be shared with elected officials and other local leaders when advocating for such safe streets features as sidewalks, crosswalks and properly timed traffic lights.
GET THE GUIDE
The free 28-page print edition of the AARP Walk Audit Tool Kit includes a back pocket for storing worksheets.
- Rochester, MN has completed multiple walk audits and park audits with residents in advance of scheduled construction projects.
- Albert Lea, MN is working on purchasing a Tri-Shaw after seeing another community walk audit.
- Roseville, MN, completed 7 walk audits and has additional walk audits planned.
- Cook County conducted a walk audit with a youth camp in Grand Portage, MN in anticipation of some infrastructure changes in their Safe Routes to School plan.
- Minneapolis, MN has a community member who is currently organizing a walk audit.
