Walkable Cities, SUMC, & Roamli
In honor of the 2023 Shared-Use Mobility Center Summit kicking off today in Chicago we wanted to highlight the importance of walkable and smart cities throughout the world. We’ve had the privilege of partnering with the SUMC Summit to offer interactive Roamli walking tours around Chicago for visitors and attendees of the conference to discover amazing sights around the city.
The Shared-Use Mobility Center is a public-interest organization dedicated to achieving equitable, affordable, and environmentally sound mobility across the US through the efficient sharing of transportation assets. By connecting the public and private sectors, piloting programs, conducting new research, and providing policy and technical expertise to cities and regions, SUMC seeks to extend the benefits of shared mobility for all.
Transportation has become the number one source of carbon pollution in the United States. It is the second-largest expense for most families after housing, and lack of reliable access to a car, bus, or train is one of the biggest barriers to employment for Americans today.
New forms of shared mobility offer new opportunities to address some of the most critical issues facing society. In combination with public transit, shared mobility is a powerful tool that cities can use to help reduce transportation costs; lessen air pollution; and expand access to jobs, opportunity, and a better quality of life. Below is a list of some of the sponsors and supporters of the 2023 SUMC Summit.
Walkable cities are becoming increasingly popular around the world as more people realize the benefits of living in urban environments that prioritize pedestrians. Walkable cities prioritize the needs of people, making them more accessible, safe, and enjoyable to navigate on foot. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the benefits of walkable cities and why they are becoming the future of urban development, not just in the United States.
Firstly, walkable cities promote physical activity and a healthier lifestyle. With more walkable streets, people are encouraged to walk instead of driving or taking public transportation, which can lead to a sedentary lifestyle. This increase in physical activity can have a positive impact on mental health, as studies have shown that regular exercise can reduce stress and anxiety levels, and improve overall mood. Furthermore, walking is a low-impact form of exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it an accessible form of physical activity for many. Isn’t it comforting when you want to grab a coffee or visit a friend and you can say “I’ll walk over” without needing to worry about external transportation. Obviously the distance itself will play a major factor but having the ability to walk on a nice day or just get outside is extremely beneficial.
Secondly, walkable cities reduce air pollution and carbon emissions. When more people walk, there are fewer cars on the road, which can reduce the amount of air pollution in the city. This not only benefits the environment, but also the health of the residents. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for the premature death of approximately 7 million people worldwide each year. By reducing the number of cars on the road, walkable cities can play an important role in improving air quality and public health.
Thirdly, walkable cities promote social interaction and community building. When people walk, they are more likely to engage with their surroundings and interact with other people on the street. This can lead to a sense of community and belonging, as people develop relationships with their neighbors and fellow residents. Furthermore, walkable cities often have more public spaces, such as parks and plazas, which can serve as gathering places for residents and foster a sense of community.
Fourthly, walkable cities can boost the local economy. When more people walk, they are more likely to visit local businesses, such as restaurants and shops, which can help to support the local economy. Furthermore, walkable cities often attract more tourists, who are drawn to the city’s walkable streets and vibrant public spaces. This can lead to increased economic activity and job creation, as local businesses and entrepreneurs benefit from the increased foot traffic.
Finally, walkable cities can improve overall quality of life for residents. With more walkable streets and public spaces, residents can enjoy a more vibrant and engaging urban environment. This can lead to increased satisfaction with their city and a greater sense of well-being. Furthermore, walkable cities can be more accessible for people with disabilities or limited mobility, making them more inclusive and equitable.
In conclusion, walkable cities offer numerous benefits for residents, the environment, and the local economy. By prioritizing the needs of pedestrians, cities can promote physical activity, reduce air pollution, foster community building, boost the local economy, and improve overall quality of life. As more cities around the world recognize these benefits, we can expect to see a shift towards more walkable urban environments in the future.
At Roamli we’re working to bring unique activities and adventures to the community in cities across the world through walking tours, scavenger hunts, and more. Visit us to learn more about how we can support your organization and drive engagement for locals and visitors alike!
