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Seven characteristics of walkable neighborhoods

EDITOR'S DESIGN CHOICE

The town center in Kentlands, Gaithersburg, Maryland has a high Walk Score…

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Ever wonder what actually goes into making a walkable neighborhood? According to Walk Score, just seven characteristics, as follows:

1. A center. Walkable neighborhoods have a center, whether it’s a main street or a public space.

2. People. Enough people for businesses to flourish and for public transit to run frequently.

3. Mixed income, mixed use. Affordable housing located near businesses.

4. Parks and public space. Plenty of public places to gather and play.

5. Pedestrian design. Buildings are close to the street, parking lots are relegated to the back.

6. Schools and workplaces. Close enough that most residents can walk from their homes.

7. Complete streets. Streets designed for bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit.

Simple right? Learn more about their methodology and also find your neighborhood’s WalkScore at www.walkscore.com.