More Walkable And Bikeable: Indiana Communities Make Progress

Communities across Indiana are finding ways to be more walkable and bikeable.  An annual summit in Indianapolis highlighted success stories and challenges they face. 

This year, the event hosted by Health By Design focused on local efforts toward active transportation. Executive director Kim Irwin says an increasing number of Indiana communities now see walkways and bike paths as public health investments.

"Walkable and bikeable communities are appropriate for all sizes of communities and all settings, whether that’s urban, suburban or rural," says Irwin. 

Having exercise-friendly environments that include parks and trails can improve overall health.  Corydon Town Council President Eva Bates North says they have made great progress, but progress comes with another issue – safety. 

"It seems like right now, traffic is one of our big problem," says North. 

Carmel City Councilor Bruce Kimball says his city is well known for creating healthy environments.

"I hear repeatedly, anecdotally from realtors, new residents, they are picking Carmel because of the active lifestyle," says Kimball. 

The summit was attended by more than 150 Hoosiers.