This essay is a finalist in the 2024 Retro Report Civic Engagement Challenge, a student contest supported by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.
By Desireé Rojas
When I was in 5th grade, my friend Troy was hit by a car on the road. You might say a kid had no business riding his bike on the road. I’d argue: Why wouldn’t he be on the road? When the Indianapolis Department of Public Works has failed to provide accessible sidewalks for the general public. It has been six years since his accident, and the only things that have seemed to change are the years. There needs to be more prioritization of sidewalks and pedestrian accessibility in my community to allow things like: the prevention of traffic fatalities, community involvement, and general safer places for people like Troy and I.
Accessible sidewalks can help prevent the furthermore of traffic fatalities in indianapolis. According to The Indianapolis Pedestrian Crisis Info, there were 684 pedestrian incidents documented in 2023 alone. Most of these happened in cities/townships including my local community. As a student who does not drive, I often feel I could be another statistic. By intentionally constructing areas for pedestrians to be isolated from the roads, the number of incidents would be reduced for people who may need to walk/ride their bike to school, work, or other necessities.
Additionally, crosswalks should primarily be accessible in the urban neighborhoods of Indianapolis. The Centers for Disease Control Prevention, highlight the importance of connected crosswalks. If every part of central Indianapolis had crosswalks, especially impoverished areas, The city could be more accessible to all and specifically families who are within closer distance of locations that can allow them to access local resources.
While some may argue that building sidewalks in these areas will bring up the cost of homes and living, The U.S Federal Highway Administration, has found that sidewalks are one of the key factors of a successful and social community, which invariably affects the quality of life in these neighborhoods as a whole. With this in mind, Civic engagement would thrive the most in my community with better infrastructure. More walkways and bike lanes could increase the number of people who attend voting polls, recreational spaces, and religious gatherings.
To conclude, We need to bring attention to the lack of sidewalks and pedestrian accessibility so people like Troy and I don’t live in constant fear when accessing our community. The amount of incidents that have happened show that Reflective and bright clothing is simply not enough to keep pedestrians safe when walking/riding their bikes. The responsibilities lie within the Indianapolis Department of Public Works, which must create safe spaces for engagement. Whether that be socially, physically, or civically.
