Raleigh pedestrians and cyclists have something to celebrate as the city rolls out new initiatives to make their travels safer and more comfortable. In a move that's expected to reshape urban mobility, the city has updated its development rules to prioritize non-car travel — this means better crosswalks and significantly more pedestrian passages.
According to a recent report by the City of Raleigh, these wide, vehicle-free paths are designed with the intention of encouraging walking, biking, and rolling. The updates are not just about improving the streetscape; they're addressing critical safety concerns as well. With more than 7,000 pedestrians killed annually in crashes across the U.S., these changes could see a significant reduction in that grim statistic.
For those tired of playing frogger while crossing the road, the city promises that the new crosswalks will feature reduced distances and enhancements to slow cars at intersections, ensuring a safer passage. "These changes give people who don’t drive more options, and make getting around Raleigh safer," Planning Manager Justin Rametta told the City of Raleigh's news announcement.
Raleigh is focusing on sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint, with transportation accounting for 52% of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions, according to the City’s Community Climate Action Plan. By encouraging residents to use alternatives to driving, the city aims to improve air quality and provide safer options for walking and cycling.
The effort involves input from the Transportation Department and the Office of Sustainability, reflecting a coordinated approach to planning as Raleigh continues to grow.
