Released Dec. 15. 2009

Contact:
Margo O’Hara
312.427.3325 x 224
margo@activetrans.org

Neighbors encouraged to spread the word about clear sidewalks, safe walking this winter

Walking in a winter wonderland is a lot easier with clear sidewalks. The Active Transportation Alliance launched a snow-shoveling campaign today that encourages residents to spread the word about safe and convenient walking this winter.

The Active Trans encourages residents throughout Chicagoland to be ambassadors for clear sidewalks in their communities. In addition to English and Spanish fliers that make a friendly request for better snow removal practices, fliers are also available to say “thanks” for a job well done. Learn more at www.activetrans.org/shovel.

The campaign encourages Chicagoland residents to
1. Print out their fliers in both English and Spanish that ask neighbors to keep their sidewalks clear from snow. Fliers are available for both Chicago and suburban residents. Residents can get 100 fliers printed at a local shop for less than $8!
2. Learn about Chicago’s snow removal ordinance and get information about what other communities in the region require.
3. Find out how to bring a snow removal law to their community.

The Chicago Department of Transportation is also rewarding businesses that clear their sidewalks. Residents can nominate local businesses for their efforts at www.cityofchicago.org/transportation.

“Snow-covered sidewalks are more than a nuisance. Seniors, people with disabilities and children rely on clear sidewalks for trips to the store, to the doctor, to work, and to school,” said Rob Sadowsky, executive director of the Active Transportation Alliance. “Snow- and ice-covered sidewalks force people into the street and discourages them from walking.”

The Active Transportation Alliance is a non-profit, member-based advocacy organization that works to make bicycling, walking and public transit so safe, convenient and fun that we will achieve a significant shift from environmentally harmful, sedentary travel to clean, active travel. The organization builds a movement around active transportation, encourages physical activity, increases safety and builds a world-class transportation network. Formerly the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation, the Active Transportation Alliance is North America’s largest transportation advocacy organization, supported by more than 6,000 members, 1,000 volunteers and 35 full-time staff. For more information on the Active Transportation Alliance, visit www.activetrans.org or call 312.427.3325.

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