The Link Between Walkable Neighborhoods and Race
Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Housing MobilitySummary
Walkability is highly desired in neighbourhoods as it can lead to higher housing values, decreased rates of violent crime, obesity, premature death and long-term memory loss. Walkable neighbourhoods often encourage higher levels of creativity and civic engagement. California Polytechnic State University conducted research within the San Francisco Bay Area and found a racial divide in relation to access to walkability. Using quantitative data, researchers created a map depicting the connection between race and walkability. An interview and focus group were conducted with 75 Bay Area residents in walkable and un-walkable communities. It was found that most participants moved to less walkable neighbourhoods because of high housing costs, with Black residents less likely to reside in walkable neighbourhoods. In addition to prices, the study noted that social relationships play an important factor in the connection between minorities and the neighbourhoods they choose to reside in.