How can you identify areas for active transportation infrastructure in socially unequal areas?

1 Assess the current situation

The first step is to collect and analyze data on the existing active transportation network, the travel patterns and preferences of the population, the socio-economic and demographic characteristics of the area, and the health and environmental indicators related to active transportation. You can use various sources of data, such as surveys, census, GIS, traffic counts, or health records, to create a comprehensive picture of the current situation and identify the gaps and opportunities for improvement.

2 Engage with the community

The second step is to involve the community in the planning process, especially those who are most affected by social inequality and face barriers to active transportation. You can use different methods of engagement, such as workshops, focus groups, interviews, surveys, or participatory mapping, to understand the needs, preferences, challenges, and aspirations of the community. You can also build trust and collaboration with the community by creating a steering committee, a working group, or a network of champions that can represent the diverse voices and interests of the area.

3 Define the objectives and criteria

The third step is to set clear and realistic objectives and criteria for the active transportation plan, based on the data analysis and the community engagement. You can use different frameworks, such as SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound), SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), or AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process), to define the objectives and criteria and prioritize them according to their importance and feasibility. You can also align the objectives and criteria with the broader goals and policies of the city or region, such as health, equity, sustainability, or resilience.

4 Generate and evaluate alternatives

The fourth step is to generate and evaluate different alternatives for the active transportation infrastructure, based on the objectives and criteria. You can use different tools, such as sketching, mapping, modelling, or simulation, to create and visualize different scenarios and options for the active transportation network, such as routes, facilities, amenities, or services. You can also use different methods, such as cost-benefit analysis, multi-criteria analysis, or impact assessment, to evaluate the alternatives and compare their advantages and disadvantages.

5 Select and implement the best option

The fifth step is to select and implement the best option for the active transportation infrastructure, based on the evaluation and the feedback from the community and other stakeholders. You can use different techniques, such as voting, ranking, or scoring, to reach a consensus or a compromise on the best option. You can also use different strategies, such as phasing, piloting, or monitoring, to implement the option in a gradual and adaptive way, and to measure its performance and impact over time.

6 Communicate and celebrate the results

The sixth step is to communicate and celebrate the results of the active transportation plan, and to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of the community and other stakeholders. You can use different channels, such as media, social media, newsletters, or events, to share the results and the stories of the active transportation plan, and to raise awareness and support for its benefits and outcomes. You can also use different incentives, such as rewards, recognition, or celebration, to motivate and appreciate the participation and engagement of the community and other stakeholders.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?