GIS walking maps to promote physical activity in low-income public housing communities

Background: Lack of time and access to facilities are commonly reported barriers to physical activity (PA), particularly among low-income minorities. Walking maps that identify and display nearby opportunities for PA, and help individuals incorporate PA into their daily routines may be an important resource for reducing these barriers. Methods: We piloted the use of walking maps in 6 low-income urban public housing communities as part of an ongoing community-based colorectal cancer prevention trial. With resident input, environmental features such as PA facilities, local businesses, and destinations (e.g., museums) within a walkable half-mile radius of the housing community were identified and plotted on a large, colorful map using geographic information systems (GIS) technology. Maps were placed in high-traffic areas (e.g., lobby) where residents could easily see them. Four focus groups were conducted to learn about map usage: one each with African American, Hispanic, and elderly map users, and map non-users. Results: Our findings show that overall participants liked the maps and thought they were useful for increasing walking and awareness of PA opportunities. Many noted walking to new places, walking instead of driving/taking the bus to nearby destinations, and planning new walking routes with their housing site walking clubs. Those with health or mobility issues found the maps least useful for increasing PA. Challenges to using the maps in this setting will be presented. Conclusions: Graphic displays of PA opportunities and resources may be a useful and innovative tool for increasing walking in the immediate neighborhood of urban, public housing residents.