The resolution also recommends that the city assess the state of the sidewalks every two years, as often as it currently assesses roadways. The city’s last major sidewalk assessment was conducted in 2006.
Representatives from the PAC, Falls Free Coalition, DC Age Friendly Cities Initiative, and Capitol Hill Village met with Capital Improvements Program Director John McGaw, the Mayor’s Office of Budget and Finance Director Eric Goulet, and other budget staff on February 4 to discuss the PAC’s recommendation.
D.C. residents who would like to join the PAC and other organizations in advocating for safe, well-maintained sidewalks can do so by testifying at the D.C. Council oversight hearing for the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) on March 17 at 2:30 p.m. in room 412 of the Wilson Building (1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW). To sign up to testify or provide written testimony, please contact Aukima Benjamin at abenjamin@dccouncil.us or 202-724-8062..
It is important to present testimony either in person or in writing about DDOT’s response in making needed sidewalk repairs and how the poor condition of sidewalks adversely affects pedestrians of all ages. Stories of individuals who have experienced falls, fear of walking, and efforts to get sidewalks fixed illustrate how the lack of a well-maintained sidewalk network impacts:
- Access to transit,
- Access to schools, recreational facilities and wellness centers,
- Health and mobility of seniors,
- Health and mobility of pedestrians of all ages.