Michael Wilson
Michael Wilson
The Effects of Transportation Infrastructure on Health: A Statistical Analysis of States Using Econometric Techniques
By Michael Wilson
Originally published July 20, 2023
7 minute read
Further investigation explores the role of transportation policies in reducing PM2.5 levels to mitigate its adverse health effects.
Particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) consists of fine airborne particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less. It is primarily generated from combustion processes, industrial emissions, and vehicle exhaust. PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, posing significant health risks to exposed populations. Extensive research has shown a clear association between PM2.5 exposure and adverse health outcomes, particularly respiratory and circulatory diseases. However, recent studies have also begun to shed light on the emerging link between PM2.5 and cognitive function, as well as mental health. (Persico, Marcotte)
Exposure to PM2.5 has been associated with respiratory health problems such as asthma exacerbation, bronchitis, reduced lung function, and increased respiratory symptoms. The fine particles can irritate the airways, trigger inflammation, and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions. Similarly, PM2.5 exposure has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension. The inflammatory response triggered by PM2.5 can contribute to the development and progression of cardiovascular conditions.
Recent research has revealed a growing body of evidence suggesting that PM2.5 may have implications for cognitive function and mental health. Exposure to elevated levels of PM2.5 has been associated with cognitive decline, impaired attention, and memory deficits, particularly in older adults. Moreover, emerging studies indicate a potential link between PM2.5 exposure and mental health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, neurodevelopmental disorders, and suicide. The mechanisms underlying these associations are still being investigated, but oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neurotoxicity are among the proposed pathways.
There has been a large push to lower concentrations of particulate matter since the Paris climate agreement and the Obama administration. There are many policies that were implemented during that time. I hope to look further into these policies including Complete Streets to assess their effects on Pm2.5 collectively and individually.
Finally, I also hope to explore the potential equity implications of Complete Streets policies in terms of their impact on underserved communities and vulnerable populations. Equity considerations are essential in the context of transportation policies to ensure that improvements in physical health are accessible to all members of society, regardless of socio-economic status or geographical location.
The transportation landscape plays a pivotal role in shaping public health outcomes and overall well-being. Conventional transportation systems often prioritize vehicular traffic, leading to adverse consequences on air quality, physical activity levels, and public health. The emergence of transportation policies, particularly Complete Streets policies, has sought to address these challenges by reimagining urban design and promoting a more inclusive and sustainable transportation infrastructure.
Complete Streets policies advocate for the creation of transportation networks that accommodate diverse user needs, with a focus to include pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users, in addition to motor vehicles for planning projects. By prioritizing active modes of transportation and improving pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, Complete Streets policies aim to create safer and more accessible environments for all users, irrespective of age, ability, or mode of transportation. In doing so, these policies aim to encourage individuals to opt for active modes of transportation, such as walking and cycling, which can have profound implications for public health, particularly in combating sedentary lifestyles and associated health risks.
In a study conducted by the Portland Transportation Research and Education Center (TREC), researchers looked at the economic effects of Complete Street Policies on businesses located on a street before and after the policy was in place. Researchers at the TREC stated, they “generally found that street improvements have either positive impacts on corridor economic and business performance or non-significant impacts.” (Liu, Shi). Complete Streets allow for more foot traffic in an area and attract more customers to a business district for a more pleasant shopping experience. With the slower pace of pedestrian speed, they expose consumers to more businesses than vehicle transportation would. Changing a street to a Complete Street is typically a low to zero net cost to the municipality due to the need to resurface or restripe the road only changing the stripe pattern to include bike lanes and cross walks.
There are more costs and benefits to Complete Street Policies than economic and business growth alone. One of the key mechanisms through which these policies can influence public health is by increasing access to bike and pedestrian infrastructure, encouraging individuals to embrace active transportation modes. Active transportation, including walking and cycling has been widely recognized as an effective strategy to promote physical activity and combat sedentary behaviors, which are significant contributors to obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic health conditions.