Alameda Walks

by on February 2, 2012 in Alameda update, Bay Area Updates

Photo by Dave T.

Alameda is known for its quaint, unique feel and its marvelous architecture and numerous shady green spaces. Many residents enjoy Alameda’s numerous and extensive parks but not all residents realize that hiking and walking are also great ways to enjoy Alameda’s
green spaces. The Alameda Walks program, run by the Alameda County Parks and Recreation department offers residents opportunities to explore areas of Alameda they might not have discovered otherwise. Walking is great low-impact aerobic exercise, strengthening the heart and lungs as well as helping develop core strength. Whether you walk for fitness or the simple joy of being outdoors, with family or alone, Alameda Walks is a great way to see more of Alameda’s green spaces.

On the first three Saturdays of each month in May through December, Alameda residents will have an opportunity to join others on walks which last for an hour. Walks will begin and end at the same point, saving walkers a hike back to their transportation. Indeed,
the walks are so popular, they’ve been highlighted in East Bay’s 25 best nature walks in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Pedestrian Friendly Alameda is a group of concerned citizens who are working to keep Alameda safe and comfortable for pedestrian traffic. They’ve helped advocate the change of a dangerous intersection, upgrading the crosswalks, as well as helping the local
schools bring the “Walk & Roll to School Day” to the district. By partnering with the PTA and local police, Pedestrian Friendly Alameda has helped introduce education and enforcement measures that make Alameda a friendlier place for residents to enjoy walking, cycling, and rollerblading.

According to their website; “Walking connects people to their surroundings: the sights, sounds, smells and opportunities to meet neighbors develop a feeling of pride and ownership. People who feel connected to their community are less likely to damage it.”

Making Alameda a safe and happy place for pedestrians helps keep the community safe and happy for families and residents as well.  Alameda is, and should remain, a place where a parent feels safe walking his or her child to school, where seniors can stroll to the corner market to pick up a loaf of bread. Pedestrian Friendly Alameda identifies those goals and advocates for safer, smoother streets, for  pedestrian-friendly parks and sidewalks, and for keeping Alameda the open, green space that it’s famous for being. Walk, bike, roll or ride, Alameda is one of the friendliest places to live in California.