In the article Walking Into the Future, Brad Broberg looks at how two generations want the same lifestyle. This lifestyle is one of walkability, hence, the 20-minute good life I spoke of previously. In a 2008 housing study, 75% of participants said they wanted the traditional, i.e. walkable, neighborhood.
CEO's for Cities sited in 13 out of 15 markets nationwide, home values and high levels of walkability had a direct correlation. The next time you're downtown, take a look around. City living is making a comeback.
People want to walk or bike and not use their cars. The Grandin Area is a prime example of this in Big Lick. Downtown Roanoke, downtown Salem, and the Williamson Road areas are also now walkable with many, if not all, of the amenities people desire.
Young Professionals and Empty Nester's are asking and shopping for, with their dollars, walkability, homes with less square footage, and amenities close-by. Will localities change with this growing trend and rezone ordinances to allow mixed-use in our neighborhoods? Can our suburbs survive without change? Will local governments see the need for a variety of transportation options? Will our very own bus line add to or alter existing routes so that it doesn't take an hour to get to where you are going?
I will leave you with one final thought. A family living in the suburbs spends 25% of its income on its cars. In a walkable neighborhood, it spends nine percent. What better ways could you save, give, or spend 16% of your income?
As my friend Nikki says, Live, Love, Laugh, Share, and Pay It Forward.
Suzanne
No comments:
Post a Comment