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A comparison of the collective image maps of the children from the before group
<br />and the after group reveals how irrtprovez�:�ents to the pedestrian and bicycling
<br />environments help children develop a richer sense of their neighborhood, as well as
<br />lessen the sense of threat posed by automobiles.
<br />These findu�gs are especially important in light of the Safe Routes to School
<br />movement, which is bringing new resources into communities to improve the walking
<br />and bicycling environment for children. California and Texas have instituted statewide
<br />programs, and Congress has tentatively included a new Safe Routes to School program
<br />in the new federal transportation bill.
<br />A before-and-after study of improvements made under the Safe Routes to school
<br />program in California found strong evidence of immediate success in five of nine
<br />schools studied. The study found more children walked to school, while automobile
<br />speeds were lower and more drivers yielded to pedestrians. The study found that
<br />projects that closed sidewalk gaps were especially :��Iti���:��f�l.�' While the study did
<br />not measure children's sense of well-being, it seems reasonable to assume that this
<br />improved as well.
<br />CONCLUSION
<br />This research seeks to address the question, "How does
<br />— auto-dependency, and auto-domination of our streets and
<br />neighborhoods, affect the way a child views his or her
<br />— world?" The maps compiled in this research show that
<br />as exposure to auto traffic volumes and speed decreases,
<br />a child's sense of threat goes down, and his/h�r ability
<br />to establish a richer connection and appreciation for the
<br />community rises.
<br />Without pedestrian and bicycle facilities to provide
<br />sanctuary for a child from automobile traffic, the negative
<br />senses of danger and dislike mean children cana�ot appreciate
<br />or possibly even identify the qualities of their neighborhood
<br />that are memorable, positive, or special. Additionally,
<br />exposure to threats posed by automobiles limits a child's
<br />positive association with his or her neighborhood, including
<br />the area around the neighborhood school. Building complete
<br />and livable streets that are safe for travel via foot, bicycle,
<br />and yes, automobiles, is especially important � we want our
<br />children to establish a healthy sense of comfort, well being,
<br />and connection within their own community.
<br />Supporting "youth livability" by achieving "street livability"
<br />objectives also helps engage children and adults in their
<br />street and community, ultimately making streets and public
<br />places safer for everyone. In closing, while new walking
<br />and bicycling facilities can improve a child's physical health
<br />and safety, they also can allow children to explore, connect,
<br />socialize, and to be...kids!
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