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 to Edgemont Park House, home to Senior Services/Lifelong Montclair programming. 

These audits will assess pedestrian safety for all residents, especially those 50-plus, and will be conducted by intergenerational teams of volunteers and partnering community groups.

Get involved in our Walk & Audit Series!

Join the DIY Walk Audit Movement!

Take the DIY Walk Audit today — and help shape a safer, stronger community!

Your perspective matters. It helps us identify how to make our community safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for everyone.

Use the survey to share your observations about sidewalks, crosswalks, signage, lighting, and accessibility. Your feedback will help guide local improvements and strengthen efforts to make our neighborhoods more walkable for all ages.

Want the direct link to the survey? Click here.

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 precipitation.  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…