Hike and Bike System Master Plan Hike and Bike System Master Plan | Page 6

CITY OF ARLINGTON , TEXAS

Health and Wellness & Alternative Transportation

It is well documented that an active community is a healthy community . The declining health of America ’ s population is alarming . Study after study affirms that sedentary lifestyles and prolonged periods of inactivity are major deterrents to health , leading to a rise in the occurrence of cardiovascular disease , hypertension , diabetes , osteoporosis and some cancers . Land use and transportation are quickly becoming areas of focus as communities strive to become more walkable , bikeable and accessible . Transportation safety and enhanced mobility along with the pattern and density of development are proven corollaries to community health and wellness .
Safer roadways , greenways , and improved facilities for pedestrians and bicyclists , aid in safety , improve the environment , and encourage more people to enter the outdoors for transportation , recreation , and day-to-day activities .
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Cyclists on an Arlington trail . Pedestrians at Bob Cooke Park Utility bike for everyday trips , like grocery shopping ( image from www . yubabike . com )
4 | Executive Summary