Towns and cities that provide safe places and access to parks, trails, bike options and sidewalks helps to improve the health of the community by providing space to be physically active. How we design and plan our community transportation systems does have a direct impact on an individual’s health. By building a comprehensive transportation system, one that includes all modes (car, walking, biking, transit and other) of transportation, is accessible to all users based on age and abilities, and is equitable for all users has a profound impact on individual and community health. In September of 2015, the Surgeon General released a Call to Action to Promote Walking and Walkable Communities. Nebraska has answered that call through the Nebraska Walkable Communities Initiative. Nebraska communities are coming together to impact community design through local master planning efforts, promote key destinations through signage initiatives and targeting key venues to promote social support campaigns.
The Surgeon General Website: The Surgeon General’s Call to Action
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: The Surgeon General’s Call to Action