POULSBO — Susan Quattrociocchi made the decision to ditch her car and walk to work two years ago.

“I am really excited about the idea of building healthy communities and I think it starts with us becoming healthy ourselves, which is done by fueling our bodies, walking more and not polluting the environment with cars whenever we can,” she said.

Making it easier for walkers, bicyclists and transit users to get where they need to go was the subject of the regional Kitsap Complete Leadership Forum, June 9 at Poulsbo City Hall.

The intention of the event, hosted by the Kitsap County Health District and the Kitsap Regional Council, was to educated attendees about the Complete Streets concept, as well as transportation solutions being discussed by various Kitsap County public agencies.

“This event is key in setting the stage for a discussion on transportation ideas throughout Kitsap County,” said Vicky Clarke, member of the Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council. “It is a rare chance for citizens and Kitsap transportation advocates and community decision-makers to come together and talk about the subject.”

The National Complete Streets Coalition works with state and municipal engineers and planners to build road networks that are safer, more livable and welcoming.

“Instituting a complete streets policy ensures that transportation planners and engineers consistently design and operate the entire roadway with all users in mind — including bicyclists, public transportation vehicles and riders, and pedestrians of all ages and abilities,” according to the coalition website.

“Combining the Complete Streets ideas with our local transportation committee is a logical stepping stone for Kitsap County,” said Don Nillott, board member for the Northwest Kitsap Trails Association. “We have a good momentum going in Kitsap and it’s imperative that we have a discussion together.” Transportation solutions put forward by the association include wider streets, more sidewalks and bike trails.

County Health Officer Scott Lindquist added, “Having accessible biking and walking options that connect to work, home and play is proven to increase physical activity, fight chronic disease and let people lead longer, healthier lives.”

About 75 people filtered in and out of the event, which featured informational displays, a presentation series and a question-and-answer session. Presentations were made by various public agencies, including health district members, members of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington State, and Pierce Transit representatives.

Liz Wilhelm learned about various bike trails available in Kitsap County while touring the various displays put up by local health experts.

“I really wanted to come here today because I believe in creating a sustainable community and environment,” she said. “I think everyone should learn all they can about this subject.”

Poulsbo Mayor Becky Erickson told participants the city would love to see new trails and forms of transportation for Poulsbo residents.

“We need to keep having dreams and wishes to make our city great, while also remembering that we are competing for resources,” Erickson said. “Everything is expensive, but we always know there are low cost ways out there just as effective at improving our city and making it great.”