Walk scores are an indicator used by smart growth advocates seeking community and economic development aims.

Prince George’s Council Member Dannielle Glaros joined former Maryland Governor Parris Glendening at MACo’s Winter Conference for a discussion of smart growth solutions.

Glaros shared her personal history of having grown up in a neighborhood where she and her brother could walk to the store to buy milk, and described some of the major projects she is working on to develop areas attractive to residents in Prince George’s County.

People want to live where they can walk, and where they can access job opportunities.

Glendening shared the mission of Smart Growth America, and described opportunities for county governments to join a coalition of local governments articulating smart growth needs to the federal government.

No matter where you live, or who you are, you enjoy living in a place that is healthy, prosperous, and resilient.

Both speakers emphasized the need for building pedestrian-friendly communities to reach aims of health, safety, and economic development. Smart Growth America provides resources including data and tools to county elected officials interested in improving walkability scores in their communities.

For more information, see Smart Growth America.