“The cooler temperatures make October an ideal time for pedestrians to be outside walking and enjoying all of the natural beauty Maryland offers, but decreased daylight hours can make pedestrian visibility a challenge. As we celebrate Walktober and MDOT SHA continues to work to identify and implement infrastructure improvements that enhance pedestrian safety, both motorists and pedestrians should remember that safety is a two-way street, and they must stay alert for each other. Motorists must also park their phones, avoid distractions, obey the speed limit and stop for pedestrians.”
Tim Smith, Administrator
Maryland Department of Transportation
State Highway Administration
"As Marylanders enjoy Walktober, it is the perfect time to remind pedestrians and drivers about the importance of sharing the road. As daylight hours get shorter and more pedestrians are out, drivers should remain vigilant and stop for pedestrians. Pedestrians are reminded to use crosswalks and wait for the appropriate signals. If we all remember to be the Share The Road driver, we can all get to our destination safely."
Chrissy Nizer, Administrator
Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration
"Fresh air and exercise can do wonders for the body and the soul. Maryland's trail system, which is second-to-none, offers many chances to enjoy the diverse natural beauty of our state on foot."
Kelly Schulz, Secretary, Maryland Department of Commerce
"The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is proud to join the Walktober campaign again this year which is a great way to highlight the health and environmental benefits of walking. It is also an important reminder of the responsibility we all share regarding pedestrian safety whether we are on Maryland's public thoroughfares or most remote trails."
Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio, Secretary, Maryland Department of Natural Resources
“Walking 30 minutes a day can improve an individual’s overall health.We urge Marylanders who are already walking each day to keep it up and for others to consider participating in this healthy and accessible form of exercise.”
Dennis R. Schrader, Secretary, Maryland Department of Health
"This year is all about rebuilding connections, so don't forget to reconnect with all there is to discover by encountering Maryland's various landscapes on foot," said Maryland Department of Planning Secretary Rob McCord. "Walktober encourages us all to consider how walking improves our health, our well-being, our economy, and our overall quality of life.”
Rob McCord, Secretary, Maryland Department of Planning