Jane's Walk

Jane’s Walk 2011

75 cities took part in Jane’s Walk 2011, inspiring an estimated 20,000 participants to get out and explore their cities and neighbourhoods on 511 walking tours. This is a 40% increase in participation from last year and speaks to the deep desire people have to connect with each other, engage and learn more about how cities work and can be made more livable.

Not only did the numbers signal the great success of this year’s May 7th and 8th event, but we also heard how much the walks mean to you.

An organizer in Tel Aviv, Israel was delighted with the sentiment during his walk, saying “And the amazing atmosphere! People were clapping at the end of each walk... it was just fun to be a part of it, knowing it is just the start of something wonderful and so important.”

A Toronto walker said ‘It inspired me to get more involved in my community, to interact with the local people and businesses and to promote civic pride.”

Another concurred with “it's an eye-opening and fulfilling event. Makes me feel engaged and an active participant in urban history in the making. One of the most positive events that happens in our city.”

Apart from allowing people to learn more about their neighbourhoods and meet fellow residents, the walks also had material effects. In Vancouver, a walker said “I will lobby my city council to make my neighborhood more walkable and accessible. I currently live in an area that is very car dependent.”

Tour guides were honoured by the warm reception and curiosity of the walkers, “There was a warm and attentive community eager to listen to what our group had to say… Jane’s Walk is a great event that offers individuals and communities a chance to get to know each other while walking and learning together.”

Overall, the 2011 walks were a great success thanks to the devoted local organizers, tour guides and walkers! This means it is time to start thinking about Jane’s Walk 2012, which judging by this year, can only be better. If you have a neighbourhood you would like to show off, or a creative idea for a walk, plan on participating on May 5th and 6th 2012.