Accessibility: Creating Places That are Safe, Inclusive, and Walkable

On this episode, we discuss the importance of designing accessible and inclusive places of connection. When we use universal design principles that honor the human experience, we are creating more inclusive, equitable and welcoming places for all people. I share an example from my own practice working with clients to create spaces that are accessible for the people they serve, like the new clinic at Parkland Hospital.   

Perhaps the most foundational attribute of a good third place is that it is accessible to those who can use it. The best versions foster a sense of ownership and become regular parts of people’s lives. This requires safe, convenient, affordable, and comfortable access to the place (1). For children, this means they can gather, play, and explore with some independence from parents as developmentally appropriate. For senior adults or people with disabilities, this means that there are easy physical access options, benches to rest, and spaces to shelter them from the elements. For all ages, the ideal is a space that is within walking distance from home, work, or school. Humans evolved to navigate our worlds on our feet, and much research has shown the benefits of physical activity on the health of our minds and bodies(2), and the role of pedestrian friendly streets, neighborhoods, and cities in fostering well-being for all - on foot, wheelchair, stroller or walker.  

Studies have demonstrated that people living in walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods have more social capital compared to residents of car-oriented suburbs. People in walkable neighborhoods report being more likely to trust others, participate politically, know their neighbors, and be socially engaged (3). Car dependence limits opportunities for in-person interaction, and whenever possible, it is best to shift away from auto travel when we think about how people access a third place. 

REFERENCES: 1. Cattell et al., 2008; Cheang, 2002;  2. Renalds et al., 2010; Wood, Frank, & Giles-Corti, 2010; 3. Leyden, 2003

FULL REPORT: https://www.hksinc.com/how-we-think/research/connecting-irl-how-the-built-environment-can-foster-social-health/

Parkland Clinic: https://www.mccarthy.com/projects/parkland-hospital-outpatient-clinic-2

Redlining & Green Space: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/past-racist-redlining-practices-increased-climate-burden-on-minority-neighborhoods/

How to Build Inclusive Cities: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-06-17/how-to-build-inclusive-cities

Equity and Green Space: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-03-19/access-to-green-space-varies-by-class-race-in-the-u-s

Universal Design: http://universaldesign.ie/What-is-Universal-Design/The-7-Principles/

Research on impact of neighborhood environment on postpartum depressive symptoms: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032719320105