LogFAQs > #980805769

Okay I made a joke about this before, since I was on the road. But here full feelings.

The concept of walkable cities is appealing, especially for those residing in mid-sized urban areas where each district can function as a self-contained community. However, proponents of walkable cities often overlook the reality of how rural much of America still is. In my job, which requires me to travel extensively across my state, I encounter vast stretches of land with nothing but farmhouses, gas stations, and the occasional Waffle House. For miles, there is often little else. People frequently discuss food deserts, but in some areas, we also have what could be termed "fast food deserts," where even basic fast food options are scarce, and gas stations sometimes double as places to buy fried chicken.

Furthermore, the push for walkable cities doesn't take into account the essential services and amenities that are spread out in these rural areas. For many residents, driving long distances is not a choice but a necessity for accessing groceries, healthcare, and employment. This reality highlights the disparity in infrastructure and accessibility between urban and rural regions. Therefore, while the idea of walkable cities is admirable and beneficial in specific contexts, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution for the diverse geographic and demographic landscape of the United States. It is crucial to consider and address the unique challenges faced by rural communities when advocating for urban-centric planning models.