PIKESVILLE, Md. — Head down Lightfoot Drive in Pikesville, just off Old Court Road, and you'll see a neighborhood debate told in lawn signs: some in support and others opposing new sidewalks.
Baltimore County is planning about half a mile of 5-foot-wide sidewalk along both sides of the roadway, between Carla Road and Old Court Road. A county spokesperson said the project is "one of several projects Baltimore County is advancing to address longstanding concerns about walkability and pedestrian safety in the Pikesville area."
Dora Segan-Kohanim, who started an online petition against the county plans, said several affected homeowners are not happy. Among other concerns, they cite the land the sidewalk will take up, the change of the neighborhood's sprawling look, and more responsibility for older neighbors, particularly during snow and ice.
"We have a lot of elderly neighbors who have lived here for many, many years. It's really hard for them to maintain those sidewalks," Segan-Kohanim said.
The county says a survey of just over 50 neighbors found 47 percent supportive, 37 percent opposed, and 15 percent undecided. Supporters, a county spokesperson said, cited the multiple places of worship and schools nearby, which include Beth Tfiloh and Pikesville High School.
Hannah Drabkin tends to agree with the project; with little ones just beyond the project boundaries, she believes her already-existing sidewalk adds a layer of protection.
"I would appreciate them. I think it would help make the neighborhood safer. I know there are a lot of kids that walk that way to school, so I would like to see there be more sidewalks to help ensure their safety," Drabkin told WMAR-2 News.
The county said the plans are still at the 30 percent design phase. While construction has not begun yet, the county said it continues to welcome community feedback as it works to make the county safer.
A county spokesperson provided the following statement to WMAR-2 News:
“The recommendation for sidewalks along Lightfoot Drive comes from the broader Pikesville Walkability Study, which evaluated numerous roads throughout the area to help create a safe, connected pedestrian network. The study examined existing vehicle, pedestrian, and transit conditions to identify opportunities to improve safety, accessibility, and connectivity for residents.
Lightfoot Drive plays a key role in local mobility, providing access to multiple schools, places of worship, and community centers. It also serves as a pedestrian link between Old Court Road and Smith Avenue, offering connections to nearby transit stops.
Community input remains essential throughout this process and is being incorporated into the design. At an April 2026 community meeting, 53 residents participated in a survey related to the project: 47% expressed support, 37% were opposed, and 15% were undecided. Supporters most often cited improved safety for children walking to school and enhanced access for members of the Jewish community traveling to religious services, especially on the Sabbath.
The project is currently in design, with the scope being carefully developed to remain within the County’s right-of-way to ensure that property acquisition is not required.
This initiative on Lightfoot Drive is one of several projects Baltimore County is advancing to address longstanding concerns about walkability and pedestrian safety in the Pikesville area. We continue to welcome community feedback as we work to make Baltimore County safer and more accessible for both pedestrians and motorists.”
