Walkable Neighborhood Interactive Map

High gas prices are here to stay and will not be getting cheaper anytime soon. So what can you do to conserve fuel and save money? Find a neighborhood that has all your personal needs within walking distance. Not only will you save money by not driving constantly from one store to another while running errands, but also you will help save the environment by reducing the greenhouse gas emission to zero. How cool is that? Use the Walk Score tool to search for a walkable neighborhood that you can walk or bike to restaurants, coffee shops, retail stores, grocery stores, banks, parks, libraries, and schools. The score ranges from 0-100 where a high score would determine a highly walkable area. A good example would be Palo Alto downtown which has a walk score of 98! Can't afford a home in Palo Alto? No problem. You can rent which I think is the smarter way to go.

From Walk Score website:

"What makes a neighborhood walkable?

* A center: Walkable neighborhoods have a discernable center, whether it's a shopping district, a main street, or a public space.
* Density: The neighborhood is compact enough for local businesses to flourish and for public transportation to run frequently.
* Mixed income, mixed use: Housing is provided for everyone who works in the neighborhood: young and old, singles and families, rich and poor. Businesses and residences are located near each other.
* Parks and public space: There are plenty of public places to gather and play.
* Pedestrian-centric design: Buildings are placed close to the street to cater to foot traffic, with parking lots relegated to the back.
* Nearby schools and workplaces: Schools and workplaces are close enough that most residents can walk from their homes."

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