The higher gas prices and the push to become healthier are seemingly moving people out of their cars and onto the pavement. MapQuest is reporting more use of its “avoid highways” function and offering a walking directions service on cell phones. Last month Google Maps added walking directions for trips shorter than 6.2 miles (that’s 10km).
Google is quick to point out they don’t always know if a street has a sidewalk, or if there’s actually a special pedestrian bridge for crossing a busy street. Of course, you can always download one of The City Portland walking maps. Maps are available for SW, SE, N and NE Portland. If you rather bike than walk, the city has bike maps too. For the Portland Metro Area visit byCylce.org.
