Burden visits again after blue zones project pilot

An international expert who studies transportation and environments in communities will return to Albert Lea on Thursday as part of the Blue Zones Project.

Dan Burden first visited Albert Lea in 2009 as part of the pilot AARP/Blue Zones Vitality Project, where he encouraged the community to consider infrastructure projects that promote active transportation.

Burden will look at progress made since that time and then plan and prioritize for future projects.

Since he was last in town, the community has completed the new Blue Zones-inspired walkway around Fountain Lake, along with additional miles of community sidewalks and the Front Street bike lanes, to name a few.

The workshop, at City Hall, will begin at 8:30 a.m. Thursday.

“The workshop will provide insight into what it means to make Albert Lea more livable and walkable and will include a walking audit to gather input and insights that will help shape and prioritize a list of livability improvements specifically for the community, “ a news release states.

Burden had helped more than 3,000 communities become more livable, walkable and sustainable, according to the release.

Burden is one of several experts Albert Lea will receive help from as part of the Blue Zones Project. The project aims to help the community make permanent environmental, social and policy changes that lead to longer, healthier and happier lives.