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Contextualizing Walkability: Do Relationships Between Built Environments and Walking Vary by Socioeconomic Context?

Arlie AdkinsCarrie MakarewiczMichele ScanzeMaia IngramGretchen Luhr
Published in: Journal of the American Planning Association. American Planning Association (2017)
Defining walkability entirely in built environment terms may fail to account for important social and individual/household characteristics and other non-built environment factors that challenge disadvantaged groups, including fear of crime and lack of social support. Planners must be sensitive to these findings and to community concerns about gentrification and displacement in the face of planned built environment improvements that may benefit more advantaged populations. We recommend five planning responses: Recognize that the effects of the built environment may vary by socioeconomics; use holistic approaches to improve walkability; expand walkability definitions to address a range of social and physical barriers; partner across agencies, disciplines, and professions; and evaluate interventions in different socioeconomic environments.
Keyphrases
  • social support
  • mental health
  • healthcare
  • depressive symptoms
  • physical activity
  • genetic diversity