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Walkability Study
Jean Wilburn
INTRODUCTION:
Jean Wilburn retired as librarian at the Clinton District Library on the Grafton
Road almost four years ago after working there for 23 years. She is active in
her church, the Halleck United Methodist Church, and has been a member of the
Community Educational Outreach Service (CEOS) for 12 years. Jean enjoys walking
and tries to walk for an hour several days a week.
WHY DO YOU WALK?
I walk to maintain my weight and to feel healthier.
WHY DO YOU LOVE WALKING?
I was raised on a farm and I love to spend time out of doors. Walking allows me
to spend
time out of the house.
WHAT IS YOUR TOUGHEST OBSTACLE TO WALKING?
The first would have to be safety. I like to walk on the rail trail and many
areas are isolated and not that safe. We need more patrols on the rail trails.
Also, the hilly topography of Morgantown makes walking difficult. I find it
difficult to walk on hills.
WHAT IS YOUR BEST ADVICE FOR NEW WALKERS?
Don’t try to do too much right away. Start slowly and gradually add more time to
your walking program.
WHAT IS THE COOLEST BENEFIT OF WALKING?
Walking helps me keep my weight down. It is so easy to put on five pounds, but
it is so difficult to take off five pounds. I also like walking with my husband
or a friend. It allows us time to be together and talk. I also enjoy the alone
time that walking allows me when I don’t have anyone to walk with.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SURPRISE ABOUT WALKING?
One surprise is the enjoyment that I get from walking. Also, the majority of
people you meet on the trail are friendly and say hello.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
I think more people should take advantage of the rail trail. The rail trail is
free and is a
great place to walk and enjoy the scenery of the river, the flowers and the
trees.