Startling News from the World of Science: Walking and Cycling are Good for You

A new study published in the medical journal Lancet outlines the health benefits of human-powered transportation modes.

1 minute read

December 1, 2009, 10:00 AM PST

By Michael Dudley


As part of the Lancet's six-part series on the "health dividend" of combating climate change, one paper reports the health benefits of walking and cycling, and argues for increased public policy support for these modes over motor vehicles.

"Pedestrians and cyclists should be made king of the urban jungle, according to an international study showing the big benefits of 'mass active travel.' It suggests money should be diverted way from roads to make walking and cycling 'the most direct, convenient, and pleasant options for most urban trips.' Pedestrians and bikers should also get 'priority' over cars and trucks at intersections."

Other health-related issues explored in the issues include replacing tens of millions of polluting indoor stoves in India with high-efficiency units, and "decarbonizing" electricity to reduce particulate air pollutants.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009 in Montreal Gazette

View form second story inside Southdale Mall in Edina, Minnesota with escalators and model cars parked on downstairs floor.

The Mall Is Dead — Long Live the Mall

The American shopping mall may be closer to its original vision than ever.

March 21, 2024 - Governing

View of Austin, Texas skyline with river in foreground during morning golden hour.

The Paradox of American Housing

How the tension between housing as an asset and as an essential good keeps the supply inadequate and costs high.

March 26, 2024 - The Atlantic

Houston, Texas skyline.

Report: Las Vegas, Houston Top List of Least Affordable Cities

The report assesses the availability of affordable rental units for low-income households.

March 22, 2024 - Urban Edge

Aerial view of Anchorage, Alaska downtown with mountains in background at golden hour.

Anchorage Leaders Debate Zoning Reform Plan

Last year, the city produced the fewest new housing units in a decade.

March 28 - Anchorage Daily News

Young man in wheelchair crossing zebra crosswalk.

How to Protect Pedestrians With Disabilities

Public agencies don’t track traffic deaths and injuries involving disabled people, leaving a gap in data to guide safety interventions.

March 28 - Governing

Aerial view of mountain town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado in the winter with snow at dusk.

Colorado Town Fills Workforce Housing Need With ‘Dorm-Style’ Housing

Median rent in Steamboat Springs is $4,000 per month.

March 28 - CBS News

News from HUD User

HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research

Call for Speakers

Mpact Transit + Community

New Updates on PD&R Edge

HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.