Published October 28 2014
The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center has designated Bellevue a Silver "Walk Friendly Community" for its walkability initiatives and programs. The Walk Friendly designation, awarded from bronze to platinum, is given to applicant communities that have demonstrated a commitment to improving and sustaining walkability and pedestrian safety through comprehensive programs, plans and policies.
Each community receives a "report card" that comprehensively evaluates its walkability based on five E's -- engineering, education, encouragement, enforcement and evaluation. Bellevue was recognized for excellence in engineering practices, as well as:
- The steadily increasing mode share for walking and transit.
- Parking and land-use policies that support a walkable environment.
- The city's Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan, which is regularly updated.
- Detailed inventories for sidewalks and curb ramps, crosswalks, medians, and curb extensions, in addition to the Bellevue's progress installing and repairing these elements.
- Bellevue's annual progress report on pedestrian-related infrastructure and programs.
Bellevue is the 50th community in the U.S. to be awarded Walk Friendly status and is among three communities recognized in 2014.
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and FedEx, Walk Friendly Communities is a national program aimed at recognizing communities for their commitment to pedestrian safety and leading the way in walkability.