Kirkland’s years of effort and commitment to make the city more walkable were rewarded this month by the Walk Friendly Community (WFC) program, when they recognized the city as a bronze level Walk Friendly Community.
Kirkland is one of 10 cities across the nation honored by the WFC program. The award recognizes the city’s commitment to prioritizing pedestrians and creating safe, comfortable and inviting places to walk.
“We are thrilled that the city of Kirkland has been recognized as walk friendly,” said Councilmember Tom Neir, chair of the Planning and Economic Development Committee in a press release. “Pedestrian safety and walkability are key components in the quality of life for those that live, work, and play in Kirkland. Years ago we engaged residents, and developed plans and goals to ensure a safe, healthy and walkable community. It is wonderful to be recognized nationally for our efforts and commitment towards those goals.”
In 2013 and 2015, the city engaged with residents to plan for future growth with a 20 year vision. In 2015 the council adopted the Comprehensive Plan: Kirkland 2035, the Transportation Master Plan, and tools such as the 10 minute neighborhood analysis tool to measure and livability, walkability, sustainability, connectedness and transit-orientation of our community.
The WFC is a national recognition program that encourages cities and towns across the U.S. to develop and support walking environments with an emphasis on safety, mobility, access and comfort. The designations are given to communities that have demonstrated a commitment to improving and sustaining walkability and pedestrian safety through comprehensive programs, plans and policies.
The program is funded by FedEx and supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration.
For more information about the Walk Friendly Communities program, visit www.walkfriendly.org.
For more information on the city’s Comprehensive Plan: Kirkland 2035, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/Residents/C
