Get involved in our Walk Audit Series!

AARP has awarded The Judy Weston Garden at Watchung Park (JWG) a grant for a series of "walk audits." As part of the  AARP Community Challenge, a grant program to make tangible improvements in communities that jump-start long-term change, JWG  will survey an area encompassing Watchung Park and including access routes from Watchung Plaza to Edgemont Park House, home to Senior Services/Lifelong Montclair programming. 

These audits will assess pedestrian safety for all residents, especially those 50plus and will be conducted by intergenerational teams of volunteers and partnering groups affiliated with Vision Zero Montclair. 

FAQs

    • A walk audit is a method of evaluating how pedestrian-friendly a street or area is by  identifying  barriers such as unsafe crossings or poor sidewalks. Participants log observations and conditions with worksheets and photographs. 

    • A walk audit provides an opportunity to advocate for changes and improvements to an area and brings community members together in other beneficial ways!

    • Residents of all ages are encouraged to participate in our intergenerational teams. In addition, community representatives will take part in the project and in reviewing its findings.  

    • The audit is eager for the insights of those using mobility devices and other forms of assistance in traversing the route.   Please contact judywestongarden@gmail.com for more information and assistance in participation.

    • The audits encompass a route of less than a mile. (See route attached.) 

    • Audits will proceed in teh event of light participation.  If pending forecasts indicate heavier rain and/or wind, please check your email and our website.

    • Yes Indeed! Audits offer not only a chance to meet great neighbors, but will include prizes, treats and more…

Volunteer Walk Auditor

Volunteers will follow a walking route, noting their observations on a range of preset questions as well as being invited to offer other insights on related issues.  The walk, including orientation, will take about 1.5 hours. 

  • Walk audits will be scheduled at different times of day and on both weekdays and weekends.

  • In the event of bad weather, the audit will be rescheduled, however if light rain is expected, the audit will be undertaken, in order to include in our assessment walking safety in wet conditions.

  • Participation incentives are offered to walk volunteers and students seeking community service hours…

Please address any questions to judywestongarden@gmail.com.

REGISTRATION: