WALKABLE USA

For centuries, cities around the globe developed in basically the same manner. Commerce, housing and socialization all existed within a short walk. The rise of the automobile in in the 20th Century, however, led to a dramatic and fundamental shift in how we designed and planned communities- especially in the United States. Interstates, bedroom communities, and shopping centers became the norm, and today many Americans can no longer easily walk to a corner store, workplace, or the a local watering hole. Most Americans realistically function in society only by car. This change in how we live has come with great consequences. Studies have shown that our dependence on driving has cost us our money, our health, and our natural environment. It has made our neighborhoods less equitable, and even undermined our sense of community. How did we get to this point and what can be done? The hour-long documentary film Walkable USA will tackle these questions through a hybrid approach of human-interest story, history lesson, and walkable design primer.

Major support for this program was provided by the Efroymson Family Fund, South Shore Convention & Visitor's Authority, Legacy Foundation, City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Indiana Humanities, Indiana Landmarks, Illinois Arts Council.