The Transportation Prescription

A new report identifies ways to incorporate health objectives into transportation and land use planning.

1 minute read

July 27, 2009, 11:00 AM PDT

By Todd Litman


"The Transportation Prescription: Bold New Ideas for Healthy, Equitable Transportation Reform in America" is a new report commissioned by the Convergence Partnership that describes specific policies and programs that can improve public health, the quality of life, and economic opportunities, particularly in vulnerable communities.

This report summarizes research and recommendations from the forthcoming book, Healthy, Equitable Transportation Policy: Recommendations and Research to be published in August 2009. Leading academics and advocates working at the intersection of health, equity and transportation author chapters in the book related to transportation modes, and key issues such as public transportation, non-motorized transportation, roadways, food access, economic development and injury prevention.

This report includes a forward by Representative Jim Oberstar, Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, who states, "For too long now, our transportation decision-making has failed to address the impacts that our infrastructure network has on public health and equity. The asphalt poured and lane miles constructed enhanced our mobility and strengthened our economic growth; but too often, this auto-centric mindset took hold and crowded out opportunities to invest in a truly sustainable inter-modal transportation system, in particular a system that meets the needs of underserved communities."

Thanks to Todd Litman

Wednesday, July 22, 2009 in The Convergence Partnership

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog