Community development strategies to strengthen communities

How can community development strategies impact neighborhoods?

Neighborhoods with good access to transportation and short commute times produce stronger economic mobility outcomes. ¹

Commuting time is a strong predictor of upward economic mobility. The longer the average commute in a given county, the lower the chances of low-income families experiencing upward economic mobility.

Neighborhoods with strong social bonds produce better health and social outcomes. ²

Parks, libraries, community centers, and other well-designed public spaces can foster stronger neighborhood social networks, also known as social capital. Neighborhoods with stronger social capital are linked to higher levels of physical and mental well-being and lower levels of social isolation.

Access to parks and green spaces improves community health. ³

Residential proximity to neighborhood parks and green spaces is correlated with better physical health, mental health, and general well-being. Individuals have less mental distress, anxiety, depression, and unhealthy cortisol levels when living in areas with access to green space.

The physical condition of neighborhoods affects community-wide outcomes. ⁴

Neighborhood blight is associated with crime and diminished economic activity and contributes to negative community employment, education, and health outcomes.

Neighborhoods with access to fresh and healthy grocery options see better health outcomes. ⁵

Neighborhoods without access to fresh and healthy grocery options (food deserts) are associated with poor health outcomes for adults and contribute to higher rates of obesity among preschool-aged children.