Tactical Urbanism for COVID-19, Equity, and Health

Abstract

Tactical Urbanism for COVID-19, equity, and healthBackground. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted daily-life activities around the world. Several countries have implemented mitigation strategies(MS) to reduce COVID-19 transmission (e.g., physical distancing, stay-at-home orders, reduced large gatherings). Urban built environment interventions, through tactical urbanism(TU), can support COVID-19 MS and, at the same time, promote equity and healthy urban design.Aim. Develop a conceptual framework and guidance for tactical urbanism to support COVID-19 mitigation strategies and opportunities for equity and urban health.Methods. Conceptual framework and critical analysis. Results. COVID-19 MS has reduced motorize traffic, improving air quality, traffic noise, and traffic incidents. MS has also reduced access to public spaces translating into less physical activity opportunities. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, socially deprived communities, and people with underlying health conditions, have been reported to be more impacted by COVID-19. TU interventions like expanding sidewalks and bike lanes; implementing temporary open streets; lowering speed limits; promoting biking and bike-share; designating bike shops as essential services; shifting from actuated to fixed traffic signals; adjusting traffic signal timing; establishing on-sidewalk queuing and dedicated delivering/loading zones; restricting access to areas where physical distancing is not possible; prioritizing active and public transport(PT) for essential workers; implementing PT back-door boarding and waived fares; providing clear and accessible TU signaling; providing transport access to testing sites and other services beyond cars; providing homeless shelter; and prioritizing TU for vulnerable communities, among others, can help reduce COVID-19 transmission and promote a healthy and equitable urban design. Conclusions. Tactical urbanism offers an opportunity to support COVID-19 mitigation strategies and provide co-benefits reducing risk factors of non-communicable diseases, traffic incidents, and the need for health services. Tactical urbanism interventions should be prioritized for vulnerable communities and considered as a low-cost, short-term action with a vision for long-term interventions.