Active Design, Physical Activity and Health

The design and conditions of buildings, streets, public transportation and parks influence physical activity, use of active transportation and other healthy behavior. A neighborhood’s features can also impact the safety of its residents.

Choose a neighborhood from the map to get a report.

Adults reporting mice or rats outside

Mice and rats are a source of household allergens connected to developing or worsening asthma.

Neighborhood poverty

The percent of households with incomes below the federal poverty level. Households without sufficient resources are often deprived of access to health care, good quality housing, and other resources that protect health.

Monthly bicycle use

Adults reporting having ridden a bicycle at least once a month in the past year.

Recent exercise

Adults reporting exercise in the past 30 days (from when they were surveyed). Regular exercise is a key way to stay healthy.

Overweight or obesity (adults)

Adults reporting a Body Mass Index over 25. People who are overweight or obese are at increased risk for heart disease and diabetes. Neighborhood factors such as walkability and the types of food retail outlets available can impact residents' risk of being overweight or obese.

Bicycle injury emergency department visits

ED visits related to bicycle injuries. Bicycle injury ED visits can indicate the overall safety of cycling in the city - for transportation, work, or fun.

Pedestrian injury emergency department visits

Transportation-related ED visits for pedestrians. Pedestrian injury ED visits can indicate the safety of walking for transportation.

Tree canopy cover

The percent of a neighborhood that is shaded by trees. Tree shade can lower a neighborhood's temperatures, can make it more comfortable and attractive to walk and stay active.

Premature mortality

Deaths before age 65. This can indicate the overall health of a population.

Perception of neighborhood safety

Adults reporting their neighborhood is safe from crime. Whether people perceive their neighborhood as safe can affect whether they will spend time outside, use parks, and use active and sustainable forms of transportation. It can also affect mental well-being.

Sidewalk area

Sidewalk area percentage. Sidewalks are important for commuting, businesses, and physical activity. More sidewalk area contributes to a safer pedestrian environment, supports vibrant business districts and can foster social interaction.

Walking distance to a park

The percentage of the population who live within walking distance to a park: a quarter-mile or less to entrances of smaller sites, such as sitting areas and playgrounds, and half-mile or less to entrances of larger parks. Increased access to green space and open space can contribute to increased levels of physical activity.

Bicycle network coverage

Percent of street milage with bike lanes. Bike lanes can improve bicyclist and pedestrian safety, physical activity, and sustainable transportation use.

Walking distance to a subway station

The percentage of population within a quarter-mile of a subway station entrance. When more people have convenient access to the transit system, they're more likely to use it. Subway access encourages active transportation, which improves the health of residents.