Integrating Planning and Public Health

Is the form of American cities to blame for the shape of Americans? With obesity rates climbing ever higher, planners are reconsidering how the built environment affects public health—not only obesity, but also asthma, cardiovascular disease, water quality, air pollution, pedestrian safety, and mental health. Integrating Planning and Public Health (PAS Report 539/540) examines collaborations between planners and public health professionals committed to building healthy communities. It outlines the five strategic points of intervention at which planners and public health professionals can coordinate their efforts: visioning and goal setting, plans and planning, implementation tools, site design and development, and public facility siting and capital spending. Case studies illustrate the specific tools—including health impact assessments—used in such collaborations. The report also examines the role of universal design in creating healthy communities.