Take a walk in my town

The City of Royal Oak laid out a Master Plan in 1999, or list of goals for it's community that it would like to accomplish. A recurring theme throughout the Master Plan is creating a pedestrian and bike friendly environment.

Rounds of applause, kudos, and even finger snaps to the city for this. Not only is it environmentally safe, it appeals to the general demographic of the city, and contributes to the sense of community that most Royal Oakers subscribe to and stay for. A former high school classmate of mine once observed on his facebook page how wonderful it was to live in a city where the walkers aren't strange people to be wary of, but members of a community who participate in an eco-friendly method of transportation and I wholeheartedly agree. Thank you Royal Oak for encouraging this.

Now, for those of you whom are clearly not familiar with the city I know and love let me help you out. Royal Oak is a pedestrian friendly town. There are multiple crosswalks on Main Street that expect your to yield for me and friends - even without a stop light (*GASP, I know!*) So, next time you visit our fair city for something fun, like say to watch a Stanley Cup Hockey final at one of our fine food & spirit locales - don't attempt to drive through Main Street and run over the pedestrians as though we are in the wrong. Park in a lot and walk pal! Or yes, man in the foreign SUV, I will slap your hood again.

With that said, and accomplished, I encourage you City of Royal Oak, it's been 10 years. Let's get a move on with our new plan!

Royal Oak's Master Plan:
http://www.ci.royal-oak.mi.us/mp/goals.html

Tips for non RO'ers Where to park:
http://www.ci.royal-oak.mi.us/mp/downtownoffstreetparking.pdf