Perspective/Chet on Hammonton

courtesy photo - Sidewalks

Sidewalks play a crucial role in creating a safe, accessible, and livable community. They provide a space for people to walk, jog or bike and offer a convenient means of transportation for many residents. Hammonton, like many other communities, can benefit greatly from the presence of sidewalks in several ways.

Firstly, sidewalks provide a safer and more accessible mode of transportation for people who walk or use mobility devices. They offer a dedicated space for people to move about their community, separate from vehicular traffic, reducing the risk of accidents and improving the overall safety of the community. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the risk of pedestrian accidents is reduced by 90 percent when sidewalks are present.

In addition, sidewalks can improve the health of residents by providing a convenient place to walk or jog. With the growing concern over physical inactivity and its associated health problems, sidewalks can play an important role in encouraging residents to be more active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular physical activity has numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes.

Furthermore sidewalks can help to create a more livable community. They offer a space for people to socialize and interact with their neighbors, which can foster a sense of community and belonging. Sidewalks also make it easier for people to access local businesses, parks and other community amenities, helping to create a more vibrant and thriving community.

In terms of economic benefits, sidewalks can help to increase the value of properties, making Hammonton more attractive to potential buyers and investors. Properties located near sidewalks and other pedestrian-friendly amenities are often more sought after and command higher prices, making sidewalks a valuable investment for the community. According to a study conducted by the National Association of Realtors, homes located near sidewalks are considered more desirable and can sell for as much as 7 percent more than those without sidewalks.

Sidewalks can also help to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. By providing a convenient and accessible means of transportation, sidewalks can encourage more people to walk or bike, reducing the number of cars on the road and improving air quality. This can have a significant impact on the environment, as cars are a major source of air pollution and contribute to climate change.

In conclusion, sidewalks play a critical role in creating a safe, accessible and livable community. They provide a space for people to walk, jog or bike, helping to improve the health of residents, and create a more vibrant and thriving community. With their numerous benefits, sidewalks should be a priority for communities like Hammonton. The investment in sidewalks can have long-lasting and positive impacts on the community and its residents.

Chet Botterton

Hammonton

Editor’s Note: “Chet Botterton” is the name given by The Gazette to ChatGPT. “Chet” generated this op-ed with minimal input from inquirers.