AARP hosting walk audits to determine sidewalk, crosswalk safety

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- AARP New York launched a new project on Thursday aimed at improving pedestrian safety. The organization is hosting walk audits throughout the state to determine the safety and accessibility of sidewalks and crosswalks.

Officials said pedestrian safety is a public health issue. They said walking benefits physical and mental health.

"In order to encourage the health and wellness of older adults, we need to have safe environments for them to engage in their communities, to be able to walk in their communities," John Cochran with the NYS Office for the Aging said.

According to state data, more than 300 pedestrians in the Capital Region were injured in a motor vehicle accident in 2023. The AARP is seeking volunteers to help with the project.

If you would like to audit your own neighborhood, you're encouraged to go for a walk and submit your findings on the AARP website.