Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Planning Around Public Health

"Peace, to have meaning for many who have only known suffering in both peace and war, must be translated into bread or rice, shelter, health and education, as well as freedom and human dignity.--Ralph Bunche

When our planning processes begin to address the full realm of human needs, instead of just property uses, then we truly become a country that seeks peace and equity for all people.

http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/16330982.htm

The California Endowment, a private health foundation that provides grants to community health organizations throughout the state, has given Richmond $255,000 to help facilitate the health-based planning concept.

General plan elements that will be developed within the context of public health include nutrition, bicycle and pedestrian safety, hazardous materials ordinances, air and water quality, homelessness and violent crime.

Since the early 20th century, cities have planned for aesthetic amenities such as parks, tree-lined streets and walkable neighborhoods. However, never before have city planners actually identified associated health benefits, Iacofano said.

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