Our communities were pedestrian friendly prior to the second world war. Over the last 45 years they have been rebuilt to accommodate the car leaving few opportunities for pedestrians. Development in the United States is traced from when land uses were mixed and compact with most daily needs being met on foot or by bicycle to the current situation of auto-orientated facilities and the demise of 'Main Street.' Generations of planners have been produced who think only in car orientated terms, shopping facilities have become inaccessible to pedestrians, children are brought up not to walk anywhere and even the police will favour the driver over the 'jay-walker.' Trends towards a similar situation in Europe are outlined. To create a positive pedestrian environment in the United States the author identifies two principle aims: to educate planners, decision makers and the public about the needs and techniques necessary to improve pedestrian circulation and to change land-use and transportation patterns. Specific suggestions discussed include making new developments of mixed use, changing zoning ordinances, improving public transportation and developing new road standards to take account of pedestrians. In particular there is a need for much research on the subject and the adjustment of values through education.
Samenvatting