When Driving Is Not An Option

A few weeks ago, the Booked On Planning podcast covered the vital topic of car dependency and its impact on modern urban living with author Anna Zivarts. Her book, “When Driving Is Not An Option: Steering Away From Car Dependency,” presents a compelling case for embracing alternative modes of transportation that cater to the diverse needs of our communities. A staggering one-third of Americans cannot drive, yet our infrastructure primarily honors car travel. This often-overlooked group includes people with disabilities, the elderly, low-income individuals, youth, and several others. They face immense challenges daily when navigating their neighborhoods simply because of a lack of accessible and inclusive transit options.

The book begins by discussing Anna’s personal experience as a non-driver due to her visual condition, nystagmus. Her life journey has endowed her with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by non-drivers. Anna highlights how planning must shift to recognize the validity of needs outside of driving, bringing attention to the fact that many people labeled as non-drivers, oftentimes are left without the tools or conditions to thrive. She encourages listening, understanding, and advocating for a more inclusive transportation framework that respects the realities of all community members.

One striking point revolves around the limitations of widely used navigational tools like Google Maps, which often prioritize vehicular traffic while inadequately addressing pedestrian needs. This creates a significant data gap, making it challenging for planners to design truly accessible environments. Communities often rely on outdated and insufficient data that fails to account for the dynamic experiences of those needing walking and biking routes. This lack of reliable, granular information ultimately perpetuates a cycle of neglect for sustainable transit practices.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) transition plans are intended to enhance accessibility, however they often suffer from vague regulations and lack of enforcement. Furthermore, the financial burdens associated with developing meaningful improvements can deter local governments from implementing necessary changes. Anna emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in perceiving accessibility not just as a legal requirement but as an integral part of societal wellbeing.

Funding discrepancies also play a crucial role in sidewalk maintenance issues. In many cities, the burden falls disproportionately on homeowners, leading to inequitable conditions across different neighborhoods. This situation creates friction, as some communities thrive while others remain disadvantaged due to lack of support and investment from local authorities. Public policy can serve as a valuable lever for positive change, yet it often fails to prioritize pedestrian infrastructure adequately.

Grassroots movements like the Week Without Driving Challenge encourages leaders to experience their communities without relying on cars and highlights the pressing need for change. By immersing local officials in the realities of life without driving, this campaign has successfully transitioned advocates into allies.

This book is a powerful reminder that the ongoing transformation of our cities hinges upon collective advocacy. By embracing diverse perspectives and uniting various communities’ needs, we can reimagine urban living for everyone. Communities need to take the steps necessary to deconstruct car dependency and actively advocate for the mobility and accessibility rights of all individuals.

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