Alpharetta, Georgia, is a bustling city located just north of Atlanta. Known for its excellent schools, thriving job market, and high quality of life, it’s no wonder that so many people are choosing to call Alpharetta home. But for those who are interested in walking as a primary means of transportation, the question arises: is Alpharetta walkable? In this article, we’ll explore the walkability of Alpharetta and what it means for residents and visitors alike.
The Walk Score of Alpharetta is 24 out of 100, indicating that the city is car-dependent and has few amenities within walking distance. While this may seem discouraging to those who are interested in walking as a primary mode of transportation, it’s worth noting that Alpharetta has taken steps to improve its walkability in recent years.
One of the ways that Alpharetta has worked to improve walkability is through the development of the Alpha Loop, a 7.2-mile multi-use trail that will eventually connect downtown Alpharetta with the North Point Mall area. The trail is designed to be accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, and runners, and will provide a safe and convenient way for residents to get around the city.
In addition to the Alpha Loop, Alpharetta has also invested in a number of pedestrian-friendly projects in the downtown area. This includes the addition of sidewalks and crosswalks, as well as the implementation of a pedestrian-friendly traffic signal system. These improvements have made it easier and safer for pedestrians to navigate the city, particularly in the downtown area.
Despite these efforts, it’s important to note that Alpharetta is still primarily designed for car travel. The city’s major roads and highways can be busy and difficult to navigate on foot, and many of the city’s residential areas are located away from commercial and retail areas. This can make it challenging for those who are interested in walking to access amenities and services without relying on a car.
That being said, Alpharetta does have a number of amenities that are within walking distance for those who live in or near the downtown area. This includes a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, as well as the City Hall and the Alpharetta Library. In addition, the city’s parks and green spaces, including the Big Creek Greenway and the Wills Park Recreation Center, provide plenty of opportunities for walking and outdoor recreation.
For those who are interested in walking as a primary means of transportation, it’s worth considering factors like proximity to amenities and access to public transportation when choosing where to live in Alpharetta. Living in the downtown area or near major commercial and retail centers can help to reduce the need for a car, while access to public transportation like the MARTA bus system can provide additional options for getting around the city.
While Alpharetta may not be the most walkable city in Georgia, the city has taken steps to improve its walkability in recent years. The Alpha Loop and pedestrian-friendly projects in the downtown area are just a few examples of how the city is working to make it easier and safer for residents to get around on foot. While living in Alpharetta without a car may not be practical for everyone, those who are interested in walking as a primary means of transportation can still find opportunities to do so in the city’s downtown area and parks.
Check out this walking tour video below!