Many of us made a point to go outside more – for physical and mental health – during the COVID shutdown in 2020. Interestingly, Orlando, Ft. Meyers, and Palm Bay, Florida topped the list for the highest rate of pedestrian activity in 2020, according to A StreetLight Data analysis of the 100 largest U.S. cities.
Walking in city centers or downtowns remained high throughout the pandemic and fluctuated just 10% compared to 2019. But, the rate of pedestrian activity outside of city centers saw the most dramatic changes in 2020 compared to 2019 with some pedestrian activity increasing by up to 100%.
The data pulled from this report demonstrates a need among planners to adjust to increased pedestrian activities. Ironically, the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL metro area also topped the Pedestrian Danger Index in 2021 by Smart Growth USA.
The pandemic and its influx of congestion-free roads in some areas created a less safe pedestrian experience having ushered in a period of reckless driving in which motorists travelled at faster, deadlier speeds. In some areas, drivers increased their speeds by up to over 40% in 2020. The number of people struck and killed by drivers rose by 45% over just the past decade.
Adding things like pop up bike lanes or widened sidewalks may be an inexpensive but effective way to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe. In addition, local leaders should consider lowering speeds, narrowing traffic lanes, and adding crosswalks.