Health and equity opportunities of commercial corridors revitalization in Colorado

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: In the U.S. transport corridors have received large attention as an opportunity area for urban regeneration. AIM. This study aims to quantify the health and equity impacts of land-use changes from low-density commercial corridors to high-density mixed-use commercial corridors with special attention on affordable housing and green spaces in Fort Collins and Denver, Colorado. METHODS: This study quantified opportunities on housing, employment, and green space of commercial corridors regeneration, based on land use scenarios at the parcel level. For the health assessment, we quantified health impacts on mortality and disease incidence related to increases of urban vegetation at parcel level in both cities through a quantitative health impact assessment approach. We developed two main policy scenarios: a) transforming low-dense commercial parcels into mixed-use developments; and b) transform vacant and parking surface lots into green spaces. RESULTS:In Denver, commercial corridors revitalization based on shifting low-density commercial parcels to mixed-use developments could absorb a 22% increment in city inhabitants, 29% new dwelling units, 59% new affordable housing, and 16% new jobs. In the same commercial corridors, the revitalization of vacant and parking surface lots to green spaces will increase 715 acres of green spaces across the city, resulting in a reduction of 35 premature deaths. In Fort Collins, commercial corridors revitalization could absorb a 77% increment in city inhabitants, 115% new dwelling units, 600% new affordable housing, and 63% new jobs. In the same commercial corridors, the revitalization of vacant and parking surface lots to green spaces will increase 54 acres of green spaces across the city, resulting in a reduction of 5 premature deaths. CONCLUSIONS:The regeneration of commercial corridors in Colorado could help to reduce urban sprawl, increase affordable housing, employment, green spaces, and health equity-related benefits. KEYWORDS: Commercial corridors, affordable housing, sprawl, green spaces, equity, health impact assessment