Derby looks to be more walkable

What should the city of Derby be doing to become a more walkable community?

That’s the overall question being posed at an upcoming open house – and officials and planners are seeking the public’s input.

The impetus behind this is the creation of a Walkable Development Plan. City Manager Kathy Sexton said the undertaking is an important one.

“For 15 years, the city has worked to improve the walkability of the community,” she said. “Now with more than 25 miles of bike paths and lots of sidewalks, we decided to assess our progress and chart a course for the future by creating a walkable development plan.” The feedback the city gains from the public will help determine what needs and desires exist to reduce the reliance on vehicles, said Jayne Siemens, president of Venice Communications Inc., which is handling event publicity.

The concept is to promote safe, enjoyable and convenient transportation options for all, she said.

That would be accomplished through sidewalk connections and streetscape amenities, she said.

They also would promote different means of transportation along with seeking methods of reducing the number of vehicle trips, Siemens said.

Public input is going to be a key driver in the process.