Problem of Interest
The issue of walkability and how accessible alternative modes of transportation outside of individually owned vehicles is prevalent in many American cities.
As someone who does not own a car, it can be difficult to access certain essential goods and services such as grocery stores. While many of these places can be reached via walking, other problems, like safety and time contribute to the commute. Speaking from experience as a student with the example of grocery stores, there are two stores closeby to campus and the adjacent area. However, these stores are more expensive than their alternatives, resulting in myself (and most likely others) to walk a further distance. Additionally, other stores that sell hygiene products, essential home items, etc, are much further and can only be accessed by a very inconvenient walk or long bus ride. Since these stores are so far away and I do not always have the time to take the bus, I find myself ordering certain items online which probably causes other issues like air pollution and adds to existing vehicle traffic.
Because most of my personal experience has been based around the university area, it would be interesting to map other neighborhoods and their access to certain essential stores, amenities, and proximity to public transportation and bike lanes.
Ok. GOOD!
what is the simplest thing we could add / first thing to help people drive less? Food access? recreational equipment? playground?
Different user types? Families, teenagers, university students, elderly, etc.
what is public without money required? What is private? what is the essential quality that is most important to leave the house – drive?