Nationally recognized guidelines for street and highway design recommend that sidewalks be constructed in areas with pedestrian activity, especially in residential and school areas. Federal policy dictates that, “… walking facilities will be incorporated into all transportation projects unless exceptional circumstances exist” (FHWA, 2000). The Federal Highway Administration urges State and local jurisdictions to revise programs to better construct and maintain an accessible pedestrian network. For more information on Federal policies and requirements, see "Intergrating Pedestrians into the Project Planning Process ."

The District of Columbia has undertaken efforts to comply with national policy, including the development of the Pedestrian Master Plan (2009), and the construction of various street projects throughout the city.

Policy

There shall be a sidewalk on at least one side of every street or roadway where pedestrians are legally permitted in the District of Columbia, and all new street designs shall include sidewalks on both sides of the street. See departmental order below.