New Tool for Measuring Neighborhood Walkability

"With its newest tool, Maponics measures walkability in three categories: overall walkability, proximity to amenities (i.e. shopping centers, dry cleaners), and proximity to leisure (i.e. social and cultural options)," explains Ariel Schwartz. "When considering walkability, the company runs simulations through the road network to figure out how walkers get where they want to go. 'It's not just a matter of measuring proximity. It's accessibility. Can you get to places, or do you need to cross highway?' says [CEO Darrin] Clement. 'It's no good if there are multiple complex intersections.'"

"This isn't a consumer-facing tool," notes Schwartz, "but you might have access to it through other services. The tool is geared in particular towards the real estate space, where perceptions about modes of transportation and access to amenities affects where people want to live as well as home prices."