Growing
scientific evidence supports a relation between the built environment
in a neighbourhood and the physical
activity of its residents. Geographic information system (GIS) can be
used to objectively assess the features of the built environment that
influence adults’ walking behaviour. Based on this information, this
project proposes an integrated index of walkability on a Census Track
level. Previously developed indices of walkability
were operationalised in a
Greater Vancouver Region District context. Besides, a new index was
created that additionally considered the access to public
transportation and
topographic aspects.
As socioeconomic status has been shown
in many studies to be
inextricably intertwined with physical activity, the interactions
between the two dimensions within the Greater Vancouver Region were
analyzed. The walkability index and an index describing socioeconomic
status were applied to identify neighbourhoods that are especially
vulnerable to the risks associated with physical inactivity.
