Multimodal Streets for All Needs

A safe, fully-connected multimodal transportation system is not about moving vehicles, but about moving people and supporting the community by improving the quality of life for everyone. Achieving this goal requires all modes of transportation be considered equally during the design of rights-of-way. From the earliest stages of development, it should be acknowledged that bicyclists, pedestrians, transit users and automobile drivers are all entitled to safe and accessible transportation options.

Since 2009, the Centers for Disease Control has strongly advocated for improved multimodal infrastructure, due to the over 100 studies that have shown the strong connection between obesity and automobile dependence. It is not the goal of Imagine Lexington to end car culture, but is absolutely a goal that Lexington become known for its abundant transportation options that encourage safe, healthy behaviors.

Changing behaviors does not happen simply because people know there is a healthier alternative. When each new development incorporates safe and convenient transportation options, and as needed retrofits are completed, the multimodal network becomes more robust and alternative forms of transportation become more attractive. Providing convenient transit options and alternatives makes individual neighborhoods more desirable—and creating neighborhoods that are more desirable makes Lexington more attractive to employers and employees alike.