The development of a walkability index: application to the Neighborhood Quality of Life Study. Issue 13 (29th April 2009)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Frank, L D; Sallis, J F; Saelens, B E; Leary, L; Cain, K; Conway, T L; Hess, P M
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 44:Issue 13(2010)
• Page Start: 924
• Page End: 933
• Publication Date: 2009-04-29
• Subjects: Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsm.2009.058701
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Emerging evidence supports a link between neighbourhood built environment and physical activity. Systematic methodologies for characterising neighbourhood built environment are needed that take advantage of available population information such as census-level demographics. Based on transportation and urban planning literatures, an integrated index for operationalising walkability using parcel-level information is proposed. Validity of the walkability index is examined through travel surveys among areas examined in the Neighborhood Quality of Life Study (NQLS), a study investigating built environment correlates of adults' physical activity.