Subject
title
Proclamation Declaring October 2026, as Walktober in Rockville, Maryland
end
Department
City Clerk/Director of Council Operations Office
Recommendation
Staff recommend the Mayor and Council read, approve, and present the proclamation to Vincent Sabol and Emily Vollmer, members of the Rockville Pedestrian Advisory Committee.
Discussion
Walking is an activity that’s part of daily life for many Marylanders and is recognized as a healthy transportation choice. Walking is Maryland’s official state exercise. But with issues of pedestrian safety and access, many communities recognize that walking and improving the walkability of our neighborhoods are goals that require public attention and action.
Throughout October, working in coordination with several state agencies and other partners, MDOT shared informational resources and a series of free webinars - or Walkinars - that are open to all. The month also includes Walk Maryland Day on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, a celebration that encourages all Marylanders to step out to enjoy walking or some other form of physical activity.
The Walkinar series is tailored to interest pedestrian enthusiasts, advocates, planners, and residents. These Walkinars highlighted how we can collectively rally around walking, an activity that is both central to the state’s active transportation efforts and a critical strategy to promote public well-being.
The Walktober Walkinar series, hosted by the Maryland Department of Planning, helps planners, local officials, stakeholders, and the public at large learn how to advocate for safe walking infrastructure. Walkinar panelists will highlight pedestrian-focused topics such as safety, health, infrastructure, and enforcement, as well as successful pedestrian programs throughout the State.
Walk Maryland
October 7, 2026, is officially Walk Maryland Day! To celebrate, we are encouraging our Maryland citizens to register for the official walk. Click below to learn more and register.
October 7, 2026, is Walk and Roll to School Day nationally.
2026 Walkinar Series
Virtual Walkinars on Thursdays:
• Oct 8: Equity, Engagement & Community-Centered Transportation Planning
• Oct 22: Technology & Innovation in Pedestrian Safety
Power Hour - Oct 15: Walk for one hour and log your steps to contribute to the statewide goal.
Secretaries’ Panel - Oct 29: A discussion hosted by leaders from MDOT, MDH, MDP, and DHCD on walking, rolling, and safety.
Mayor and Council History
The Mayor and Council proclaim this proclamation annually.