Arlington, Virginia has been chosen as “America’s Most Walkable Suburb” by Prevention Magazine. It’s no surprise that Arlington has been selected “walk friendly” as it has great public transit as well as extensive sidewalks and trails throughout the community. Arlington’s quality of life is consistently voted high by its residents, and part of this is attributable to its business and city leaders creating lively and walkable places.
Arlington’s population of 220,000 people especially attracts many young professionals and families who enjoy Arlington’s walkability over other close-in suburbs. While Arlington is home to the Pentagon and other government-related businesses, it is also ideally located near Washington, D.C., Maryland, and other Northern Virginia communities. Clarendon/Courthouse, Crystal City, and Ballston/Virginia Square neighborhoods have their own metro stations in Arlington.
WalkArlington is the popular Arlington County initiative that has spurred people to get on their feet and leave their cars parked. WalkArlington developed more than 20 walking routes around the county and publishes a calendar of events. The efforts to promote a ‘car-free’ diet has helped families figure out how to live without a car or at least reduce time spent in the car, resulting in building a close sense of community in Arlington where neighbors frequently run in to each other on the sidewalks. More information on WalkArlington can be found at www.walkarlington.com.