Jim Walker, the founder of Walk21, an internationally-focussed pedestrian advocacy group, has made a notable statement in his talk at the UITP Summit in Hamburg, Germany. He emphasized the need for safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable walking/cycling experiences, stating that despite years of road safety campaigns, many countries still fall short in providing safer pedestrian or cyclist environments.
Walker argued that public transport operators are often overshadowing pedestrian and cyclist experiences in their assessments of passenger satisfaction and system efficiency. He highlighted that a significant portion of public transport trips involve walking or cycling, with 90 to 98% of such trips. Walker pointed out that merely improving pedestrian assistance, such as widening sidewalks, planting street trees, or adding rest stops, is insufficient for achieving these goals. He argued that driving, autonomous vehicles, and newer forms of cycling (like electric scooters) represent a smaller palette of possibilities that are undervalued.
Walker stressined the importance of ensuring that walking is prioritized over driving and other modes of transport. He suggested that when walking becomes the default mode, it can increase satisfaction andensity, reducing congestion and emissions. He also emphasized the need for urban planning to expand pedestrian infrastructure, provide green spaces for seating, and integrate pedestrian-friendly transit options into public transport networks. Walker warned against the tendency of cities to appeal to automobile enthusiasts, believing that the core goal of urban development is to provide green spaces and sense of community to marginalized communities.
In addressing the challenges in meeting these goals, Walker highlighted the need for a rethinking of transport policies and the role of local authorities and transit operators. He argued that the current models of urban transport—fathering one of their key indicators as bike lanes—do not accurately reflect the quality and utility of pedestrian infrastructure or public transit. He suggested that cities and governments should adopt a pedestrian-centric approach, ensuring that all modes of transport are equally valued and beneficial.
Walker also discussed the role of green Travel in improving public health and safety, with Maria Neira, World Health Organization (WHO) Director, emphasizing the link between public transit and public health. Neira noted that cycling, even in public transport, carries significant health benefits, such as reduced serious injuries to pedestrians and air pollution reduction. She also highlighted the need for transport operators to collaborate with medical professionals to build trust and ensure public transportation is a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly option for everyone.
As the UITP Summit approaches, the focus will be on shaping a sustainable, inclusive, and safe urban environment where pedestrian and cyclist awareness and inclusion are central to policy design. Walker’s insights underscore the importance ofStreet-Level Action, where the focus is on real-world improvements that make a tangible difference in people’s daily lives. The talk and summit will continue to drive approval of policies that prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety and a more sustainable transport future.
