The same smart growth strategies that make communities more attractive and affordable places to live also make them healthier places. Multimodal livable streets that are safe and comfortable for walkers and bikers encourage people to get more exercise and live healthier lifestyles as part of their daily routines.
Smart Growth encourages healthy communities
Only about 25% of Americans get the recommended amount of daily exercise. This inactivity has contributed to the obesity epidemic, yet we continue to build our communities in ways that discourage everyday physical activity like walking and bicycling. When a community is designed to be easier to get around, people can more easily incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.
By increasing transportation options we help reduce traffic and air pollution, and preserving green space helps protect water quality while making our city more beautiful. By applying smart growth principles we help ensure that Tulsa will develop in ways that keep our children and families healthy, with clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, and safe places to exercise.
