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Is walkability healthy for all? Using the National Environmental Database to examine equity in the environmental health characteristics of pedestrian-supportive neighborhoods in the U.S

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  • Braun, Lindsay M.
  • Fox, Eric H.
  • Frank, Lawrence D.

Abstract

Marginalized populations in the U.S. often live in dense urban areas, which could promote active travel and health. However, while compactness can support walkability, it can also create exposure to pollution, noise, injury risk, and urban heat islands. These exposures may be higher for marginalized groups, creating systematic “walkability-related” risks.

Suggested Citation

  • Braun, Lindsay M. & Fox, Eric H. & Frank, Lawrence D., 2025. "Is walkability healthy for all? Using the National Environmental Database to examine equity in the environmental health characteristics of pedestrian-supportive neighborhoods in the U.S," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 374(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:374:y:2025:i:c:s0277953625003545
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2025.118024
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Arlie Adkins & Carrie Makarewicz & Michele Scanze & Maia Ingram & Gretchen Luhr, 2017. "Contextualizing Walkability: Do Relationships Between Built Environments and Walking Vary by Socioeconomic Context?," Journal of the American Planning Association, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 83(3), pages 296-314, July.
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