When cars are the primary source of transportation for a city, it is not just the air quality or road conditions that suffer. Think of those who can’t afford or can’t drive a car.
Referred to as Automobile Apartheid by Joel S. Hirschhorn, when a city lacks adequate public transportation or safe bike and walking routes, those of limited ability or economic circumstances suffer. This includes the elderly, youth, the disabled and the impoverished.
Hirschhorn writes that, “Automobile apartheid means that anyone who wants mobility through walking, bicycling or public transportation suffers discrimination by a built environment and government structure designed for automobiles. In the past 20 years, when sprawl has run rampant, the number of trips people take by walking has decreased by more than 42 percent. Walking to school has also decreased by a similar amount. And, yes, overweight and obesity have climbed as automobile addiction has increased.”
What are the Elements of an Active Living Community?
- Quality public transportation provides services to everyone and allows mobility to otherwise disadvantaged groups of people.
- Safe bike routes allow everyone equal opportunity to get where they need to go in town.
- Established sidewalks, bike lanes, and accessible trails encourage people to use alternative modes of transportation.
