Hartford, along with five other Connecticut cities, is accepting the challenge to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety over the next year.
It's part of a national initiative known as "Safer People, Safer Streets," which aims to bolster safety laws and develop biking and walking facilities.
"Ensuring our community has access to safer streets and trails for biking and walking is a must. This encourages a healthy lifestyle and promotes a cleaner environment," Hartford Mayor Pedro Segarra said in a statement. "Whether someone is unable to drive due to a disability or chooses to commute to work on a bicycle, our City should provide safe places for them to get around."
A community group called Transport Hartford is teaming up with the city to help improve conditions for walkers and bikers in Hartford.
"In every Hartford neighborhood there are countless residents who do not drive, and they deserve safe and convenient transportation options throughout the year," group member Joshua LaPorte said in a statement.
The mayor is supporting the push toward walking and biking to create a healthier Hartford by helping to prevent childhood obesity and fight asthma in adults, according to a news release from the mayor's office.
