Transportation agencies can also support projects that enhance mixed-use neighborhoods where different destinations are within walking distance of one another. Most people who use public transportation walk to or from stops and stations or make other trips by foot during the course of their day. This is because every public transportation trip is a multi-modal trip. Although public transportation is not typically defined as active transportation, studies have shown a higher level of physical activity among public transportation riders. Improving public transportation services produces similar results. More people might then bicycle or walk to work, shops, and services. Agencies can do that by reducing distances between key destinations and providing and improving bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Transportation agencies and their partners can create opportunities for people to exercise for recreation and to build physical activity into their daily routine.

How can transportation agencies support active transportation?

Sedentary lifestyles are an important reason that two of every three adults in the United States are overweight or obese. Image source: NHTSA Relationship to public healthĪlmost one in four adults in the United States report that they do not engage in any physical activity outside of their jobs.

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