Walkability is for kids
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TL;DR
- Walkability is currently perceived as a liberal issue, but it should be a conservative concern that supports families and children.
- American children have less freedom and walk less than in previous generations, contributing to anxiety and declining birth rates.
- Current federal measures of walkability, like the EPA's Walkability Index, are flawed because they focus on adult needs (e.g., proximity to transit and employment) and neglect factors important for children (e.g., traffic safety, parks).
- A revised walkability index should prioritize traffic volume and speed, sidewalks, trails, and access to schools and parks.
- Conservatives should embrace walkability, even if it means some inconvenience for drivers, to foster environments where children can safely roam and play.