by 
A research project to make the older suburban neighborhoods of Riverside, CA, more walk-able and desirable for residents is underway.
According to an article from The Press-Enterprise, researchers at UC Riverside’s Center for Sustainable Suburban Development is leading a research project to determine ways to make the Ramona and Arlington neighborhoods more walk-able.
The neighborhoods are known for empty dirt lots, broken sidewalks, inadequate street lighting, and parks with no amenities. The walkability plan will follow the concept of new urbanism to improve the neighborhoods.
According to the article, new urbanism is a form of development that has a goal of improving public health by integrating shopping and housing in a pedestrian-friendly environment.
The project will be community centered. Residents were able to offer up suggestions for improvements at a workshop that took place on February 24. The Riverside City Council is expected to consider a plan next year.
The project is funded with a grant of over $200,000 from the California Department of Transportation as well as $26,000 from the Riverside County Department of Public Health and Riverside County Transportation Commission.
The commitment to making these neighborhoods more walk-able and enjoyable will reflect well upon the entire city of Riverside and could spread to other neighborhoods all over the city.
