About

Virginia Walkability Action Institute

The Virginia Walkability Action Institute (VWAI) works with local and regional teams to create policy, system, and environmental (PSE) changes in local communities. The goal is to increase access to physical activity, with a focus on walking and walkability. Members receive training and technical assistance, both in-person and virtually. Teams develop a detailed action plan to pursue a policy or system change to improve walking, biking, taking public transit and using micro-mobility devices (e.g. e-scooters) in their communities.

Virginia Department of Health (VDH), in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant (PHHS).

The VWAI is facilitated by a cadre of national and statewide faculty and supports the Surgeon General’s Call to Action on Walking and Walkability and Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd Edition. The VWAI also supports Virginia’s collective efforts to create neighborhoods and environments that promote health and safety through walking and bicycling (Healthy People 2030). Participating individuals and teams are engaged through multiple methods (e.g., didactic, experiential, discussions, etc.) within a structured and practical learning atmosphere. The VWAI consists of in-person and distance learning modules, on-going technical assistance, and special project funding.

2024 VWAI Cohort Applications Now Open!

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH), in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant (PHHS), announces the sixth annual cohort of the Virginia Walkability Action Institute!

Read the 2024 VWAI Overview Document
Submit a 2024 VWAI Application

Informational Webinar – Tuesday, December 12 at 2:00 pm ET

During the 2024 VWAI Application informational webinar, prospective applicants will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the VWAI, including:

  • Application process;
  • Timelines;
  • Eligibility;
  • Participant responsibilities, and;
  • Program outcomes.

The Virginia Walkability Action Institute supports multi-sectoral teams and motivated individuals seeking to improve walking and walkable communities. Prospective applicants are encouraged to share this opportunity with others!

Register for the Webinar here!
Join the Dec. 12 Informational Webinar!

VWAI Alumni Special Projects

As part of the Virginia Walkability Action Institute, teams and individual members plan and complete a special project aimed at improving access to walking, cycling, public transit, and micro-mobility devices in their community. Below are a few project examples from past cohorts.

2022 VWAI Road Safety Assessments

In partnership with the Virginia Department of Transportation, teams and individual members of VWAI conducted a Road Safety Assessment (RSA) along a selected corridor in their community with the assistance of VDOT. Below are a few examples from our most recent cohort.

2023 Public Workshops

In addition to the core curriculum offered exclusively for VWAI cohort members, the VWAI also offers a free monthly workshop series that is open to all residents and practitioners in Virginia. Our 2024 Workshop Series will be announced in January 2024. The 2023 Workshop Series recordings are available to watch below!

Upcoming Workshops

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the announcement for our 2024 Workshop Series!

Workshop Recordings

How to Engage

The application period for the 2024 cohort is NOW OPEN! Read more about the 2024 VWAI program, and submit an application today! The VWAI coordinates one cohort each year.

VWAI Contact:

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