October 2022 – Building upon its 2019 Health in All Policies (HIAP) Resolution, the TPO approved recommendations that consider the health impact of Complete Streets projects in the 2045 Long-Range Transportation at its October 2022 board meeting. Part of a greater effort to integrate health concerns and priorities into all areas of the transportation planning process, the TPO and its planning partners can use the study to better plan healthier Complete Streets projects.
About the study
Called the Health Impact Assessment of 2045 LRTP Complete Street Projects, the study evaluated communities around five High Injury Network Corridors (HINC) for occurrences of health issues such as high blood pressure, asthma, and diabetes as well as other demographics such as rent burdens. What the study found was that higher traffic proximity and poor air quality equated to poorer health outcomes. The study then chose designs for each HINC that would lessen poor health outcomes by improving safety, incentivizing non-car commutes, and reducing proximity to traffic and air pollution.
What the study recommends
The study lists several recommendations such as decision making at the planning level to address health issues and HIAP priorities. The study also states that planners can make decisions by using a set of prioritization principles as a guide for selecting Complete Street corridor studies and project funding prioritization.
Take a look!
From healthy mobility goals to bar graphs and maps showing health risks and disparities, this study outlines important information for planners and community members alike. To view the full list of recommendations from the study and supporting material, visit planhillsborough.org/health-impact-assessment-of-lrtp-complete-street-projects. For more information, contact Joshua Barber, AICP at barberj@plancom.org or 813-576-2313.
