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4 PLACEMAKING AND HEALTH It is important to remember that transportation infrastructure creates important public spaces that serve and can inspire the community. The importance of placemaking reinforces the criticality of establishing multi-discipline teams of professionals with varying areas of expertise to contribute to the project from concept development to construction. Good urban design can help create healthy neighborhoods with great streets and innovative and sustainable building forms. If a street is a healthy and inclusive environment, then we should see all members of the community out on the street sitting, standing, walking, bicycling, and using public transport. 20 There are ten indicators of a healthy street (Figure 4-1) which focus on the
experience of people using streets and can be applied to urban, suburban contexts and even in Rural Neighborhoods and Rural Activity Centers. People choose to walk, bicycle, and use public transportation – Walking, cycling, and using public transportation should be the most attractive ways to
Figure 4-1 Healthy Street Indicators
travel, and making them more enjoyable will benefit everyone.
Pedestrians from all walks of life – One of the indicators of a healthy street is whether there are people reflecting the full diversity of society on the street. Easy to cross – The types of crossing needed will vary based on context (urban, suburban, and rural), but on all streets, it should be easy for people of all ages and abilities to find a safe place to cross without having to go out of their way. People feel safe – People should feel comfortable and safe from crime, intimidation, or injury on any street day and night. Shade and shelter – High winds, heavy rain, high temperatures and sun exposure can have a significant effect on people’s ability to travel actively and spend time in the street as well as their enjoyment. Things to see and do - People are more likely to travel actively when there are things to do locally and will also be less dependent on cars if shops and services are within walking distance, this applies in all contexts. Places to stop and rest - A multitude of resting places will help mobility for some people, particularly those who are ill, injured, older or very young.
20 Guide to the Healthy Streets Indicators, Delivering the Healthy Streets Approach, Transport for London http://content.tfl.gov.uk/guide-to-the-healthy-streets-indicators.pdf
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