What is walkability in urban design?

Walkability in urban design refers to the concept of creating environments that are friendly and accessible for pedestrians, making it easy and safe for individuals to walk within a community. This includes elements such as well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, mixed-use developments, and proximity to amenities like shops, parks, and services. The emphasis is on ensuring that walking is a viable option for transportation, fostering not only mobility but also social interaction and public health.

Enhancing walkability can lead to reduced reliance on cars, lower traffic congestion, improved air quality, and increased community engagement. By prioritizing pedestrians, urban designers aim to create vibrant, livable spaces that promote a sense of community and well-being.

The other options, while related to urban planning, do not focus specifically on the concept of walkability. Encouraging car use contradicts the notion of promoting pedestrian-friendly environments, designing for public transit may support overall mobility but does not directly foster walking, and creating bike lanes is focused on cyclists rather than pedestrians. Thus, the focus on urban design that encourages walking captures the essence of walkability best.