UPDATE: The New Orleans City Council passed a measure Thursday which would give walkers and bicyclists a voice in city government. Eleven appointed members will make up the new Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Advisory committee.

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – Non-drivers in New Orleans hope to gain a new voice in city government Thursday. City council will vote on a proposed measure forming what’s called the Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Advisory Committee.

Executive Director of Ride New Orleans Rachel Heiligman says this new committee would give people who walk, run and bike more influence shaping future transportation policies which apply to them, “This is a really big opportunity to guide the council in policy’s that are going to create safer environments for us to walk, bike or ride transit. So we can make sure whether you’re using a wheelchair, pushing a stroller or riding a bike that you can get to your destination and do so safely.”

If passed, eleven appointed members will head up the new Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Advisory committee.

The national organization Alliance for Biking and Walking is watching the vote.

Should the measure pass they tell WGNO in a statement, “The city of New Orleans will be joining peer cities like Austin, Texas and others across the country making great strides addressing transparency in transportation planning and accessibility for all.”