Step Forward, Erlanger

Step Forward, Erlanger is an initiative to expand and complete the sidewalks of Erlanger, Kentucky. The initiative promotes community walkability and active living within the community. The initiative began by identifying all missing sections of the sidewalk system needed to complete a full loop through the city. In addition, members of the planning team identified physical obstructions, areas where lack of ramps made intersections impassable for bikes or wheelchairs, and places where sidewalks are too close to busy streets. A master plan was then created in order to design a step-by-step plan to rebuild the city’s sidewalk system. According to the master plan, Phase I priority sidewalk sections included safe walking routes to local schools, libraries, and parks. Phase II priorities included assessing and planning improvements on the west and east sides of the city. Step Forward combines these development projects with one-on-one efforts to encourage people to get physical exercise.

The purpose of the initiative is to construct a complete sidewalk loop throughout the City of Erlanger in order to promote physical activity.

In three years, the initiative has been successful in getting more than $300,000 in grants to build sidewalks and crosswalks.