Stimulating community and local policy action using GIS mapping combined with field surveys to document low-income neighborhood food environments

Since 2006, over 80 low-income neighborhoods in California have been assessed by 23 local health departments using Communities of Excellence in Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity Prevention (CX3) tools and methods. CX3 data has documented a multitude of conditions portraying food environment. Developed by the California Department of Public Health, CX3 is a program planning framework that examines neighborhoods against community-level indicators. Standardized tools and methods measure the indicators using a combination of GIS mapping followed by field surveys. Accessibility to supermarkets and farmers' markets as well as the proximity of fast food outlets to schools and parks are mapped using GIS. Survey tools provide in-depth examination into food stores for availability, quality and affordability of fresh produce; new WIC food items; healthy/unhealthy marketing promotions; etc. Fast food outlet assessments include child-oriented marketing tactics, healthy options, and presence of nutrition information. Walkability, outdoor advertising around schools, and food bank assessments are conducted. Some local departments involved community residents and youth as surveyors. Urban, suburban, and rural neighborhoods have been assessed.

Data from CX3 neighborhood assessments is proving to be a compelling strategy to gain attention from local policymakers, redevelopment agencies, and planners. Numerous improvements have resulted to the built environment to create more healthful conditions as well as future improvements. Progress results of local program strategies, environmental and policy changes will be presented. Reflections on the state-to-local health department interaction necessary to ensure consistent application of CX3 framework will also be discussed, along with limitations.