I've driven along those streets many times in my 23 years in Smithfield but hadn't paid close attention. Closer up, the first thing I noticed on my new route was the variety of architecture in one of Smithfield's oldest neighborhoods. Unlike many subdivisions today, no two houses in the neighborhood are alike. I don't know my architecture, but the neighborhood has a bit of everything - brick, wood, one story, two, curved roof lines, columns, carports, garages, porches and stoops.

This is not to knock modern subdivisions. I enjoy walking through my neighborhood, which has more variety than a lot of new subdivisions. But in North Smithfield, no one house really reminds me of another. It makes the walk interesting.

Of course, so do the drivers who run red lights at Bridge and Third streets.

Admittedly, I got spoiled during my college years in Chapel Hill, a pedestrian-friendly town if ever there was one. I think ambulances stop for pedestrians there.

Smithfield, on the other hand, is an automobile town, so much so that pedestrians are apparently invisible. Fortunately, the good Lord must be looking after me on my walks. A number of times, I've just about stepped off the curb when the light turned red, but then I've paused for some reason. I figure divine intervention has kept me from becoming a hood ornament for a car that ran a red light.

If you're looking for a route to walk downtown, I highly recommend North Smithfield. Just watch your step.