Walkable Communities

 "Walkable communities" are communities that accommodate all types of transportation, including cars and transit, but focus on safe and convenient environment for pedestrians and bicyclists. Since inactivity may lead to obesity and other health problems, Public Health supports the concept of walkable communities and helps local communities find ways to increase physical activity options, perform community-wide walking audits, and host Walkable Community Workshops.

Public Health can help local residents find and measure walkable areas within communities, neighborhoods, or worksites to increase physical activity options. This is particularly important in cities or communities with limited or no access to parks, trails or facilities. Anyone living or working in Carver County can make a Health Education Request to use Public Health's walking wheel to measure their own walking paths. There is no cost associated with using the walking wheel. Email the request to public-health@co.carver.mn.us or send it to: Carver County Public Health, Government Center Administration Building, 600 East Fourth Street, Chaska, MN 55318.

The Public Health staff will assist individuals in communities and neighborhoods interested in conducting a walking audit of walking routes in their community. This process involves an easy-to-use Planning Guide for a Walkable Community offered through the state health department. The results of these assessments can be used to raise awareness of issues or assist decision making in future projects and developments. To find out how to conduct a walkability assessment in your neighborhood call (952) 361-1329.