The Universal Need for Better Sidewalks

Hillary Smith and Paula Manoela dos Santos spread the news of the English translation of the "8 Principles of Sidewalks" guide, originally written in Portuguese for a Brazilian audience and published by the World Resources Institute.

The causes for publising a guide to better sidewalks are certainly applicable in the United States: "as urban areas have become more sprawled, walking has slowly been suffocated by other modes of transport that are less healthy for both people and cities. Wide, congested roads have taken precedence over pedestrian sidewalks, crossings and public spaces. Too often, the pedestrian areas that do exist are poorly constructed and maintained."

The guide's goal is to inspire urban transformation, according to the article by Smith and dos Santos, by pursuing eight, interconnected principles.

1. Proper Sizing
2. Universal Accessibility
3. Safe Connections
4. Clear Signage
5. Attractive Spaces
6. Security
7. Quality Surfaces
8. Efficient Drainage

The article includes more details on each, the Guide even more.