Over the next four years, the province will contribute to a safe and attractive province for pedestrians through research, collaboration and subsidies. 1 million euros is available to implement the plans.
The walking agenda contains concrete plans to better organize the province for pedestrians. For example, there will be a new subsidy scheme for minor adjustments to the infrastructure that make it safer, more attractive or more accessible for pedestrians. This could be a bridge over a ditch, a missing footpath or the removal of an obstacle. Municipalities also receive support to better connect important facilities in the villages, such as public transport, shopping centers and educational institutions, for pedestrians.
Healthy, sustainable, cheap and easy
Groningen is the first province to actively implement pedestrian policy. Mobility Deputy Johan Hamster is enthusiastic. “A lot of money and attention goes to cyclists, motorists and public transport travelers in Groningen. And that is right. But walking is the healthiest, sustainable, cheap and accessible form of travel. We are also focusing on this with this running agenda. Together with municipalities, Routebureau Groningen and other partners, we encourage Groningen residents to walk and hike more often.”
Physical health
Walking contributes to better physical health. That is why programs are being introduced to encourage walking. For seniors, for example, walking is an accessible form of exercise, but it also contributes to maintaining social contacts. There will also be a program to encourage companies to do more to get employees to exercise.
Recreational
Research will be conducted into the quality of the existing walking junction network and new junctions will be added. In addition, there is a budget to support villages or neighborhoods in constructing and maintaining local village centers. Attention is also paid to road safety: for example, walking crossings on provincial roads are mapped and assessed.
