Globally, transportation has always encouraged diversity in growth and development. Conversations have revolved on issues of current and future sustainability in the built environment. Non-motorized transport is one of the key dimensions of sustainable transportation. Exploring differentiated and nuanced understanding on how NMT support transportation sector norms and standards in respect to creating just, equitable and sustainable communities and societies is key for overall development. Sustainable provision of NMT infrastructure and services has remained a stubborn challenge for municipalities throughout South Africa. The location and quality of non-motorized transport systems plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable flows and movement of people, goods, and services. The majority of NMT systems and infrastructure often face neglect by municipalities, are coupled with poor implementation tactics as reflected by inadequate expression in their Spatial Development Frameworks (SDFs) and lack of a critical mass of NMT projects to enhance high impact implementation of NMT projects, programmes, and activities. The paper discusses the failures and issues surrounding non-motorized transport at a local level. The paper concludes by observing the critical need for local government to rethink the concept of non-motorized transport as a sub-discipline to motorized transport.