First National Bank Museum

Every time I mention reducing parking, someone brings up people with mobility issues.

I get it. Accessibility matters. But let’s look at the actual numbers.
Up to one-third of the population can’t drive. Kids under 16. Elderly people who’ve lost their licenses. People who can’t afford a car. People with certain disabilities. People who’ve had their license suspended. People who simply choose not to drive. Meanwhile, about 12% of the population has mobility issues.

So car-dependent places are actually excluding three times more people than the group we’re supposedly protecting.

In car-dependent sprawl, if you can’t drive, you’re completely isolated. You can’t get to the store. You can’t go to work. You can’t participate in your community. You need someone to drive you everywhere or you’re stuck at home.

In walkable places, people who can’t drive can still function. They can walk to the corner store. Take the bus. Get around their neighborhood. Live independently.

And here’s what people miss about mobility challenges, walkable places are often better for people with disabilities too.

Everything is closer together, so there’s less ground to cover. Sidewalks are maintained and level, which matters for wheelchairs and walkers. Ground-floor retail means no stairs or elevators. Transit and paratransit systems actually work in dense areas. You don’t have to navigate massive parking lots where cars are backing up and pavement is uneven.

I’m not saying we eliminate every parking space. But the idea that car-dependent sprawl is more accessible than walkable neighborhoods? The data doesn’t support it.

Car dependency works for one group, people who can drive and can afford a car.

Walkable places work for everyone else.

Marietta Art Alive will host this year's River Towns Plein Air event from April 18 through May 3 in and around Marietta, Columbia and Wrightsville, beginning with an Artist Quick Draw competition on April 18.

"This year's quick draw is sponsored by the Marietta Area Business Association and will take place during the Annual Cherry Blossom Festival on Front Street in Marietta," artist Marita Hines explained. "The competition invites the public to see the Cherry Blossom Festival from an artist's perspective. Artists age 18 and older will be stationed throughout the event with their easels and art supplies, painting festival scenes. Their entire artwork must be completed within a limited time frame."

Learn more at https://townlively.com/where-art-meets-the-outdoors/

MERCHANDISER | Donegal