Land use, transport, and population health: estimating the health benefits of compact cities
September 11, 2025
Research Article

The effects of New Urbanism on public health

by Iravani, H., & Rao, V.

Full Citation

Iravani, H., & Rao, V. (2020). The effects of New Urbanism on public health. Journal of Urban Design, 25(2), 218-235.

Key Findings

This paper finds evidence that ten New Urbanism principles can produce positive public health outcomes. These outcomes include: (1) higher usage of non-motorized and public transit modes, which results in more physical activity; (2) lower usage of private automobiles, which results in less air pollution; (3) safer streets, which results in fewer traffic accidents; and (4) complete community planning for residents, regardless of income, age or ideas, which results in better access to health resources. These results improve public health. This study also applies several walkability and connectivity indicators and suggests their use in cities to maximally accrue public-health benefits.

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