WASHINGTON (CBSDC) — According to a new study, Washington is one of the most pedestrian friendly cities in the nation.

The nation’s capital has been labeled a Gold Walk Friendly Community by the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center. The gold status ranks D.C. as one of the most elite communities for walking in the country.

Of the nine cities recognized, Washington is the only designated as a gold-level Walk Friendly Community.

The high honor falls in line with Mayor Vincent Gray’s Sustainable Vision Plan. By the year 2032, he would like for at least 75 percent of all trips originating in the city to be by walking, biking, mass transit or other methods of clean transportation.

“We have an extra bounce in our step today as we celebrate our Gold status,” Gray said. “It validates the work we have already done to promote walking and other clean modes of transportation. It shows we’re on the right path to creating a more sustainable D.C.”

Communities are selected based on how much they’ve demonstrated a commitment to improving sustainability, walkability and pedestrian safety through comprehensive programs, plans and polices.

In all, nine cities were recognized for their commitment to pedestrian traffic with award levels range from bronze to platinum.

Gold Level

Washington, D.C.

Silver Level

Long Beach, Ca.
Redwood City, Ca.

Bronze Level

Gainesville, Fla.
Fort Collins, Co.
Northampton, Mass.
Rochester, Minn.
Essex Junction, Vt.
Shorewood, Wisc.

Seattle is the only city to have ever achieved platinum-level status to date.

Only 33 communities across the United States in total have been named Walk Friendly Communities.