Netherlands launches pedestrian monitor to map urban safety

The Netherlands Pedestrian Monitor has been launched to collect data on how residents experience walking in their municipalities. Running until October 25, the initiative invites people to identify areas where they feel unsafe, encounter accessibility issues, or find walking environments particularly pleasant.

By allowing participants to mark specific locations on a map, the monitor aims to provide municipalities with insights into social safety, traffic safety, and the quality of public spaces. Dennis van Sluijs, an advisor at Arcadis, noted that while pedestrian awareness is growing, detailed knowledge regarding daily walking experiences—such as barriers for the elderly or disabled—remains limited. The results are intended to help local governments implement effective measures to improve urban accessibility and safety.