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Why Safer Streets communities, kids do too. Studies show that students who walk or
It’s not just adults who benefit from safer, more walkable

bike to school are more alert, perform better academically, and have
improved concentration throughout the day. Physical activity increases
Are Smarter Streets: blood flow to the brain, delivering vital oxygen and nutrients. This

improved circulation before school and during a midday break enhances
focus, attention, and memory. Exercise also stimulates the release of
endorphins, natural mood boosters that combat anxiety and depression,
common obstacles to effective studying.
The Surprising sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes means that these simple, healthy
Unfortunately, in many parts of our county, the lack of safe pathways,
habits aren’t feasible for many families.
When we build infrastructure that allows children to get to school
Benefits of Active safely under their own power, we’re giving them the tools to succeed,
not just in class, but in life. Walking to school with friends provides
important socialization, creating a stronger sense of community around
Transportation our schools. We’re also easing the traffic burden on parents. How many
hours do parents spend inching along in drop-off and pick-up lines that
snake blocks away from the school?
Safer streets are also good for property values. Nationwide, homes
in Collier County located in walkable, bike-friendly neighborhoods consistently sell faster
and at higher prices. Here in Southwest Florida, where many residents
prioritize an active lifestyle and connection to nature, the demand for
by Michelle Avola-Brown, Executive Director, safe, scenic routes for walking and biking is growing rapidly.
Naples Pathways Coalition The Paradise Coast Trail, which will be a 100-mile multi-use path
connecting Naples to surrounding communities, is a perfect example.
hen we talk about improving our
Once complete, this trail will not only provide a safe, car-free route for
community, we often focus on
recreation and commuting, but also act as an economic driver, enhancing
W schools, healthcare, and economic
the appeal of neighborhoods it touches and attracting visitors seeking
growth. But one of the smartest investments
wellness-focused travel. Because of Naples Pathways’ vision for the trail
we could make in Collier County isn’t in a
and our advocacy and fundraising, we are just a handful of years away
classroom or clinic, but on our streets! Creating
from construction!
safer streets for people who walk, run, and bike
Investing in safer streets also brings less obvious, but equally powerful
isn’t just about preventing crashes. It’s a powerful way to improve
benefits. Communities with strong walking and biking infrastructure
mental health, boost academic performance, raise property values,
experience less traffic congestion, lower transportation costs, and
and enhance our overall quality of life. In a place as beautiful
improved air quality. They also tend to have stronger social bonds, as
as Naples, where outdoor living is part of our identity, building
people interact more when they’re out from behind the wheel.
infrastructure that supports active transportation is more than a
In a post-pandemic world, the importance of connection, both
safety measure. It’s a smart, community-wide investment in our
to each other and to the outdoors, has never been more clear. People
future.
want to live in places where they can move safely and freely, where kids
Research consistently shows that physical activity is closely
can play outside without fear, and where seniors can age in place with
linked to better mental health. Regular walking and biking reduce
dignity and ease. These aren’t luxuries; they’re necessities for a resilient,
symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve mood, and even
thriving community.
enhance cognitive function. When our streets are safe and inviting,
At Naples Pathways Coalition, we believe that everyone deserves safe
people are more likely to choose active transportation for their
access to our streets, whether they’re walking their dog, jogging with
daily routines, whether it’s a brisk morning walk, a bike ride to the
a neighbor, biking to work, or pushing a stroller. Through projects like
farmer’s market, or an after-dinner stroll with the family.
the Paradise Coast Trail and advocacy for Hands-Free Florida, we’re
For older adults, these small acts of movement are key to
working to make Collier County a leader in smart, safe transportation.
maintaining independence and reducing the risk of chronic disease.
But we can’t do it alone. It takes community support, full and part-
They also provide an essential outlet for stress relief and emotional
time residents, businesses, and community leaders, who understand that
regulation for every generation. By building streets that prioritize building safer streets is not just a matter of transportation policy, but a
people, not just cars, we’re investing in a healthier, bold step toward a healthier, stronger, and smarter Naples.
happier Collier County.
For more information, please visit www.NaplesPathways.org and www.HandsFreeFlorida.org
If you have any specific questions, email me at Michelle@NaplesPathways.org
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