Challenge
Fayetteville, North Carolina, has historically been designed with a suburban layout, which creates difficulties for residents who walk, bike, or use other non-motorized transportation. The City recently appeared on Walk Score’s list of America’s least walkable cities, underscoring the urgency of improving pedestrian safety and connectivity. Local leaders recognized that to shift this narrative, Fayetteville would need a clear plan to prioritize investments and create a safer, more connected system for all travelers.
Solution
Kittelson worked with the City of Fayetteville to develop a pedestrian plan. We conducted a thorough analysis of conditions across both City- and NCDOT-maintained roadways. The team used a comprehensive, systematic evaluation procedure to screen streets based on pedestrian and bicyclist crash history and a customized Pedestrian Level of Comfort performance measure. To build on past efforts, the team also reviewed recommendations from earlier plans to ensure consistency and avoid duplication.
Through two rounds of in-person and online engagement, residents shared their experiences navigating Fayetteville on foot and by bike, offering valuable insights into areas where safety and comfort could be improved. This feedback helped shape a prioritized list of 144 projects categorized as low, medium, or high priorities. The team also developed an implementation plan with cost estimates and identified funding sources to help the City move forward.
The Outcome
Improving Walkability in Fayetteville, NC
The resulting plan provides a roadmap with which Fayetteville can dramatically improve safety and walkability. By focusing on projects that reflect both technical analysis and community priorities, the City is positioned to make progress on creating a more connected environment for people walking and biking. The work also lays the foundation for long-term cultural and physical changes that will support healthier, more accessible travel options for all residents.
