Survey Finds Alabamians Feel Unsafe Walking

More than two-thirds of older Alabamians say they can’t safely walk to the grocery store, and almost 70 percent say they can’t safely walk to public transportation, according to a survey released recently by AARP Alabama.

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“Non-drivers have to depend on friends and family members, or in many cases, take their lives into their own hands by walking,” said Joan Carter, AARP state director.

According to Transportation for America, Older Americans are two-thirds more likely to be killed while walking than those under 65 years of age, yet when polled, they express an interest in being able to walk because of rising gas prices, an inability to drive and a desire to remain healthy, among other reasons.

With that in mind, AARP Alabama is supporting HB342, or “Complete Streets” legislation. Complete streets policies help eliminate transportation access barriers for children, disabled users, the elderly, those who do not drive and others. The legislation is expected to be voted on in the current legislative session.

“Complete street designs are critical for ensuring that roads are designed to allow all users to travel safely and conveniently, that scarce transportation dollars are spent wisely and that Alabamians have choices when it comes to how they transport themselves,” said Adam Snyder, executive director, Conservation Alabama.