By Gary Lloyd
TRUSSVILLE — The city of Trussville ranks 34th out of the state of Alabama’s 35 largest cities in walkability, according to www.walkscore.com.
The website uses a proprietary algorithm to rank more than 10 million addresses and more than two billion walking routes to neighborhood amenities such as grocery stores and schools. “Walk Scores” for cities are determined by these proximities. The scores were updated in November.
The “Walk Scores” developers believe that walkable neighborhoods with access to public transit, better commutes, and proximity to the people and places you love are the keys to a happier, healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
Out of 100 possible points, Trussville earned 10 points on its “Walk Score,” ranking the city 34th out of the 35 largest cities in Alabama. Homewood ranked first with a score of 40. Both are considered car-dependent cities. Center Point ranked 15th out of Alabama’s largest cities with a “Walk Score” of 22. New York City earned a “Walk Score” of 87.6, making it the most walkable city in America for 2014.
Trussville City Council President Buddy Choat said implementing the downtown master plan will make downtown Trussville a more walkable place. He said the addition of two new community elementary schools — one in the Magnolia Place area and one in the Cahaba Project — will also contribute to walkability in the city. When the greenway project is complete, walking from Civitan Park to the Trussville Sports Complex along the Cahaba River will bring a lot of excitement, Choat said.
“That’ll be the most popular area in Trussville, probably, when it’s all said and done,” Choat said.
While not in the largest 35 cities category, Clay earned a “Walk Score” of 26 and Pinson earned a 37. Both are considered car-dependent cities.
Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd.