Getting Around Montgomery: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Montgomery is primarily a car-dependent city, making walkability limited. However, several neighborhoods like Old Cloverdale, Capitol Heights, and the Garden District offer a semblance of pedestrian-friendliness, with access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Downtown Montgomery presents some walkable areas, particularly around sites of historical interest. Despite these pockets of walkability, the overall infrastructure lacks comprehensive sidewalks, and safety concerns may deter residents and travelers from relying heavily on walking for daily errands.

Public transportation in Montgomery is relatively minimal, offering limited convenience for travelers relying on it as a primary mode of transport. The Montgomery Area Transit System, known as 'The M,' runs a bus service with routes that primarily cover central areas. Recent improvements like a mobile app and updated units show promise, but coverage and frequency may still be insufficient for those needing consistent, reliable travel options across the city. Initiatives such as a micro-transit pilot program in select areas and the Intermodal Center's intercity connections are steps in the right direction but are not yet enough to alleviate all transit challenges.

Biking in Montgomery presents some challenges due to limited infrastructure. While there are efforts to enhance bike-friendliness, such as the addition of bike racks and a new bike share program, many roads still lack dedicated lanes. Traffic and safety concerns may deter regular biking for daily commutes, making it more viable for casual rides or recreational outings rather than practical transportation. Overall, the city's current cycling infrastructure caters more to leisure than to the needs of travelers who wish to incorporate biking into their daily routines.