Transportation System Benefits
A transportation system that takes into account drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians and transit users will contribute to the health of both people and the environment. The first rigorous nationwide investigation of the relationship between urban form, physical activity and health has shown that the type of place people live is associated with their activity level, weight and health. Researchers developed a county “sprawl index,” quantifying the extent of spread-out area where homes are far from any other destination, and high-speed arterial roads that are unpleasant or unsafe for biking and walking. According to a 2003 Smart Growth America report on the health effects of sprawl, all 22 Tennessee counties had poor sprawl indexes including Hamilton County. Across the U.S., people living in counties marked by sprawling development were more likely to walk less, weigh more, and suffer from hypertension. Communities designed with dense residential areas, mixed use neighborhoods (residential combined with commercial use), and connected streets and paths enjoy better health.
As Chattanooga’s downtown area undergoes redevelopment, it is becoming a vibrant district where residents can truly live, work and play. This redevelopment brings a potential for increase in vehicle miles traveled and roadway congestion until more Chattanoogans live in the urban core rather than commute. While in the downtown area, replacing short car trips with bicycling and walking will remove some of the burden off roads and aid in reducing congestion.
As Chattanooga’s downtown area undergoes redevelopment, it is becoming a vibrant district where residents can truly live, work and play. This redevelopment brings a potential for increase in vehicle miles traveled and roadway congestion until more Chattanoogans live in the urban core rather than commute. While in the downtown area, replacing short car trips with bicycling and walking will remove some of the burden off roads and aid in reducing congestion.
CARTA: Chattanooga Area Regional Transit Authority
CARTA Electric Shuttle
Benefits
There are many benefits to living an active life. Follow the links to find out more.
Contact
For more information on ALTN projects or to request a presentation or schedule the mobile bicycle fleet for your worksite or group:
- E-mail: info@activelivingtn.org
- Phone: (423) 643-6887
- Mailing: 200 River St. Chattanooga, TN 37405