Completing Sidewalk Networks: Benefits and Costs - 6 October 2023 Abstract

Sidewalk funding increases are justified to satisfy ethical and legal requirements, and to achieve various economic, social and environmental goals. [...] Of 2,300 miles of sidewalks in the City of Seattle, 46% are rated to be in fair, poor or very poor condition, and in 2019 the city received nearly 3,000 complaints and paid $1.4 million in settlements due to sidewalk trips and falls.12 Many of these sidewalks were built decades ago and lack current universal design features, and so are difficult and dangerous for many users. [...] Regional and state/provincial transportation agencies can significantly improve pedestrian facilities on their highway and public transit projects, such as sidewalks on bridges and pedestrian crossings over highways, and provide grants to local governments to improve pedestrian facilities including sidewalks. [...] 8 Completing Sidewalk Networks: Benefits and Costs Victoria Transport Policy Institute Conclusions Walking is the most basic and universal travel mode, and sidewalks are the most basic walking infrastructure, but they are often overlooked and undervalued in transportation planning. [...] Increased sidewalk investments are justified to satisfy ethical and legal requirements, and to achieve various economic, social and environmental goals.