Kansas City Residents Logged 150 Walking Miles

The city recently ranked 52nd among the 100 largest U.S. cities for pedestrian and cycling activity.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Hiking

Bold vector editorial illustration of a lone pedestrian silhouette walking along a modern urban boulevard, representing walking and cycling activity. — Kansas City residents average 150 walking miles annually, reflecting the city's current progress in expanding pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should your local government increase spending on pedestrian and cycling infrastructure in your area?

Residents in Kansas City walk an average of 150 miles per year, placing the city at 52nd among the 100 largest U.S. cities for walking and biking. This data highlights the city's current standing as local infrastructure continues to expand.

Why it matters

Understanding walking and cycling habits helps measure the impact of new urban infrastructure projects on daily mobility. These figures provide a benchmark for how Kansas City compares to other major metropolitan areas in the country.

Kansas City residents average 150 miles of walking annually, while the city holds a national rank of 52nd out of the 100 largest U.S. cities. For comparison, residents in Orlando lead the nation with over 650 miles per person.

The players

River Market

This historic district in Kansas City serves as a major hub for commerce and is connected to the riverfront via a new pedestrian bridge.

Southwest Boulevard

This major thoroughfare in Kansas City is currently the site of an active two-phase infrastructure project to improve bicycle transit.

The details

Kansas City has invested in new infrastructure, including a $15 million pedestrian and bike bridge that connects the River Market to the riverfront. Additionally, a two-phase project is currently working to install new bike lanes along Southwest Boulevard to improve connectivity.

A $15 million pedestrian and bike bridge opened in May 2026.
The second phase of the Southwest Boulevard bike lane project began in summer 2026.
Completion of the Southwest Boulevard bike lane project is expected by spring 2027.

Culture Shift

The city's focus on pedestrian-friendly infrastructure mirrors national efforts to transition away from car-centric urban design. Projects like the River Market bridge demonstrate a broader shift toward integrating non-motorized transit into the daily commute.

Residents can expect improved connectivity between the River Market and the riverfront following the opening of the new pedestrian bridge. Commuters should also plan for ongoing construction as the Southwest Boulevard bike lane project continues through next spring.

The takeaway

Investment in pedestrian bridges and dedicated bike lanes signals a commitment to increasing the walkability of the Kansas City metro area. Residents can better utilize these new transit options to increase their daily activity levels as infrastructure projects conclude.