City Know-hows

Why we walk: Race and the hidden costs of walking more in America

Walking as access to interactions. Yonge Street “the longest street in the world”, Toronto, Ontario Canada. Credit: University of Michigan Library Digital Collections

Differences in walking behaviour among racial groups highlight systemic inequalities that affect how and why people walk, pointing to broader issues of transportation and urban planning inequities.

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Target audience

Urban planners, public health officials, nonprofit organization leaders

The problem

Walking habits for transportation differ among racial groups in the United States. Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic people tend to walk more and for longer durations than Non-Hispanic Whites, possibly due to limited transportation options. This raises concerns about underlying systemic inequalities and the need for better policies to improve transportation equity in underserved communities.

What we did and why

I analyzed data from the American Time Use Survey (2003-2019) to understand how walking habits for transportation differ among racial groups in the U.S. I used statistical models to compare the likelihood and duration of walking trips among Non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and Non-Hispanic White people. The goal was to uncover potential systemic inequalities and inform policies to improve transportation equity in underserved communities.

Our study’s contribution

Unlike previous inconclusive findings, this extensive analysis of national data highlights systemic inequalities in transportation, emphasizing the need for targeted policies to improve transportation equity and walkability in minority neighbourhoods.

Impacts for city policy and practice

The study suggests that policies should focus on improving transportation options and walkability in minority neighbourhoods to address systemic inequalities. Enhancing public transportation, pedestrian infrastructure, and safety can provide better mobility and access to opportunities for Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic communities. This approach can promote transportation equity and improve the quality of life for underserved populations.

Further information

Full research article:

Who walks most? Uncovering racial disparities in walking in the United States | Open Access
Joe Grengs

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