A new app called Walc makes navigating while walking easier to do. Even more ambitiously, Walc aims to make it easier to make the choice to walk, rather than drive.
"A navigation app called Walc, designed for pedestrians, was built on the idea that someone walking could use different directions than someone in a car," according to an article by Adele Peters.
Peters quotes Allison McGuire, founder of Walc, for insights into the concepts behind the pedestrian navigation app. McGuire makes this excellent point: "Time passes differently when you're walking—all of your senses are engaged and you gravitate toward visual cues to guide your way…You measure distance with time, blocks, steps, and even calories burned. When you're driving, you look out for signs and measure distance in miles."
So instead of receiving directions to turn north, the app uses more readily apparent landmarks, such as, for example, a McDonalds or a Starbucks, to provide its directions. Another helpful feature of the app: "With a new hands-free 'pocket' mode, you can leave your phone in a coat or bag and listen to directions as you look around, instead of staring at a screen."
FULL STORY: This Navigation App Is Designed For Pedestrians, Not Drivers

Planetizen’s Top Planning Books of 2023
The world is changing, and planning with it.

Chicago Red Line Extension Could Transform the South Side
The city’s transit agency is undertaking its biggest expansion ever to finally bring rail to the South Side.

How ‘Daylighting’ Intersections Can Save Lives
Eliminating visual obstructions can make intersections safer for all users.

San Diego Trolley Nation’s Most Popular Light Rail
The system's ridership benefited from an extension project and free transit for youth.

San Jose Affordable Housing Development Gains Approval
A proposed project is moving forward with reduced building heights and all-affordable units.

Oklahoma City Begins Work on Parking-Protected Bike Lane
The project is part of the city’s broader plan to improve bike and pedestrian infrastructure and road safety.
City of Morganton
San Joaquin County
University of New Mexico - School of Architecture & Planning
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
Park City Municipal Corporation
National Capital Planning Commission
City of Santa Fe, New Mexico
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.