Avenal to conduct first ‘walk audit’

A city in Kings County will soon be doing its first-ever “walk audit.”

The City of Avenal will conduct a walk audit on April 10 starting at 10:00 a.m. in an effort to help identify crucial pedestrian infrastructure improvements.

A walk audit is typically the first step towards policy, system and environment change undertaken in street environments to consider and promote the needs of pedestrians as a form of transport.

The event is being organized alongside with A&M Consulting Engineers as Avenal prepares to apply for funding through the statewide “Active Transportation Program” (ATP).

Funding from ATP will help transform the city’s disadvantaged community’s transportation infrastructure to prioritize the needs and safety concerns of pedestrians and cyclists.

City officials will gather input from participants with diverse perspectives, including residents, local business owners, community organizations, and officials.

The walk audit route will be along a quarter mile of 5th avenue, starting on the north side of Skyline Boulevard and end in Neighborhood Park.

Participants will observe, experience, and document various aspects of the pedestrian environment, such as sidewalk conditions, shade coverage, crosswalk safety, signage, and ADA accessibility.

Feedback and observations collected will inform the city’s planning and development efforts to enhance pedestrian safety and comfort in the local community.

Residents, business owners, and media to join the walk audit to highlight the event.