A recent article explores the promise—and potential pitfalls—of new technology to support the growing popularity of urban pedestrianism.
According to a recent article by Michael Scott, “the convergence of pedestrianism, technology and the built environment is poised to spark a walkability revolution that promises to yield a meaningful return to people as well as the cities in which they live.”
Describing what he calls the “Age of Mobile Pedestrianism,” Scott surveys some of the apps and ideas that are changing the way that people of all ages engage with their cities.
For instance, Scott quotes Steve Carroll, chief operating officer of RideScout, a mobile app that provides real-time information for getting around on foot or by other alternative forms of transportation: “We’ve been receiving interest from both local governments and businesses that want to provide incentives for their people to become car free. They have an open ear because of traffic congestion and other concerns associated with car-dependent lifestyles.”
Scott also acknowledges the potential pitfalls of pervasive technology, including distracted walkers and, of course, luddites. On the latter point, Scott quotes James Shaffer, president of Streetscapes, Inc.: “While all of the buzz is about smartphones, we must also consider the subset of people who couldn’t care less about technology yet want key information to enhance their walk experience.”
FULL STORY: Smart Cities and the Technology of Walking
Federal Plan Takes Aim at Transportation Emissions
The U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization is designed to guide federal investment and regulations, focusing on electrification with a nod to transit investment and walkability.
Europe Building a Post-Car Future
While the United States mobilizes to transition to electric cars, cities and countries in Europe are transitioning to fewer cars.
Earn Rewards for Traveling for by Foot, Bike, Bus, or Train
The city of Orlando is partnering with the Miles app.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.
Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.
Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.
MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.
Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Caltrans
City of Fort Worth
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie