Historical Context Report: Active Places

As one drives across the U.S., it is easy to distinguish neighborhoods that benefitted from high levels of public and private investment and those that received less. Often, areas with high investment tend to have beautiful and lush parks and green spaces, designated bike lanes and complete sidewalks with curb ramps for individuals in wheelchairs, higher per capita wages that fully support residents’ physical activity preferences, and open school grounds where children can play after school. Communities with low current and historical investment experience challenges in creating the foundation for environments that support play and activity.