ARLINGTON, Va. – Arlington is a Gold-level place to walk, according to the federal government and FedEx. 

 

The County this week received a Gold-level designation for walkability from the national Walk Friendly Communities (WFC) program, sponsored by the US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and FedEx. Arlington was recognized for its commitment to improving and sustaining walkability.

 

“We welcome this recognition of Arlington’s efforts to create streets and paths that are safe, pleasant and interesting places to walk,” said County Board Chairman Christopher Zimmerman. "By making our community more walkable – with wider sidewalks, more shade trees and more ground-floor retail -- we encourage healthier habits, help businesses attract customers and help the environment.”

 

WFC evaluated communities across the nation for walking safety, mobility, access and comfort. Only three other communities – Ann Arbor, Michigan, Hoboken, New Jersey and Santa Barbara, California, received the Gold-level designation. Seattle, Washington was the only community to receive Platinum, the highest distinction.

 

Arlington also was recognized for the success of programs such as  WalkArlington as an example for pedestrian advocacy groups nationwide, as well as its Car Free Diet and Walkabouts programs which encourage behavior changes and a healthier lifestyle.