Baton Rouge Residents Want a More Walkable City, AARP Survey Finds

A recent AARP Research Survey shows that Baton Rouge residents want a more walkable city, one with safe sidewalks, well-marked crosswalks, and improved lighting to support pedestrians and cyclists.

According to the online survey of 243 adults age 50 and older, 78% said they want Baton Rouge to become more walkable, reflecting a growing interest in walking and biking not only for exercise but also for errands, shopping, and visiting friends.

“Walkability is directly tied to the quality and health of communities. A majority of residents surveyed supported sidewalk maintenance, clearly marked crosswalks and improved lighting to support walking. Many expressed their frustration with neglected sidewalks, sidewalks that stop suddenly, poor lighting and the lack of protected crosswalks,” said Denise Bottcher, State Director, AARP Louisiana.

“We are pleased that Baton Rouge is investing in pedestrian and biking infrastructure through MOVEBR and other means, but more needs to be done to improve the walkability of the city.”

The survey revealed that nearly two-thirds of Baton Rouge residents choose walking or biking as an alternative to driving. Among those who walk or bike, 68% do so for exercise, while 51% use it for errands or shopping.

Even so, safety remains a concern. While 76% of frequent walkers and cyclists feel safe, 8% said they never feel safe—pointing more to infrastructure issues than to crime. And 93% of respondents said improving pedestrian infrastructure is important.

AARP Louisiana’s transportation advocate, Dr. Jeanne George, says the survey reinforces what both younger and older generations want—communities that make it easy and safe to get around.

“We know younger generations have strong preferences for walkable communities, but it was surprising to see how many older Baton Rouge residents felt the same way—like I do,” said George. “It’s important for Baton Rouge to invest in safe streets for all users—whether they are driving, walking, strolling, rolling, biking, or using CATS.”

AARP commissioned the online survey of 243 Baton Rouge residents ages 50 and older to understand their attitudes toward accessibility and transportation. Conducted June 16–29, 2025, the data reflect the local population by age and gender.

Survey Infographic.pdf