The City of Charlottesville was recognized last week for its “walkability” by The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center (PBIC) as part of a program sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration. According to the center, Charlottesville earned a Silver Level status “due to high rates of walking, innovative planning practices, and a centralized, successful Downtown Pedestrian Mall.”
PBIC attributed the city’s walkability to its transit service, zoning policies and the Complete Streets Resolution adopted by City Council last November. The resolution asks that all local roads be safe for drivers, walkers and bicyclists alike. Seattle, Washington, was the only city to reach Platinum status, and Arlington, Virginia, was among four localities to receive a Gold recognition.
Charlottesville’s isn’t foreign to recognition for being walker- and biker-friendly. In 2008, the League of American Bicyclists awarded Charlottesville a Bronze level for its bike friendly attitude, policies and infrastructure. However, many local transportation advocates maintain that a lot remains to be done. Earlier this year, city traffic engineer Jeannie Alexander said that Charlottesville planned to implement shared lane markings for cyclists and motorists on Water Street between Ridge and 10th streets. For more about Charlottesville biking community, click here.