In 2013, the N.C. Board of Transportation adopted
WalkBikeNC, a comprehensive statewide plan for improving bicycling and walking conditions across North Carolina.
Focused on five main principles – mobility, safety, health, the economy and the environment – WalkBikeNC looks at how investments into sidewalks, bike lanes and greenways benefit communities at relatively low costs and how bicycle and pedestrian accommodations are able to:
Promote physical, mental and social well-being by providing outdoor places to relax, exercise and socialize
Provide easy walking or bicycling connections between neighborhoods, schools, parks and trails
Increase property values, promote tourism and foster local businesses by encouraging foot traffic
Improve overall quality of life
The plan also provides a synopsis of historic efforts, current trends and future strategies aimed at improving walking and bicycling conditions in the state.