Better health for whom: Exploring the relationship between pedestrian-oriented zoning reforms and gentrification

March 15, 2024

Pedestrian-oriented zoning code reforms have the potential to improve opportunities for physical activity by encouraging mixed uses, walkability, and multi-modal transportation. The increased density allowed with these types of reforms, combined with improved built environment features, may lead to increases in housing values and neighborhood desirability. These factors have been associated with gentrification and potential displacement.

Lindsey Realmuto, a PhD candidate at the University of Illinois Chicago’s College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs and Senior Program Manager, Public Health at the American Medical Association, presented on her dissertation research that explores the relationship between the adoption of pedestrian-oriented zoning and gentrification. Gentrification may disrupt the potential positive impact of increased physical activity opportunities for long-term residents by causing cultural and/or physical displacement pressures following zoning changes.

Her presentation reviewed the existing literature on pedestrian-oriented zoning code reforms and its relationship to gentrification, her research methods, challenges faced, and a few initial takeaways from her research.