Assessing walkability using structured observation of the built environment by community volunteers: Are Los Angeles Neighborhoods walkable?

Background: “Walkable” urban neighborhoods promote walking for leisure/exercise, enhance daily physical activity, and facilitate social interactions among residents. Assessing walkability of the urban context with systematic social observation can be an opportunity for raising community involvement and proposing policy interventions to local governments. Methods: The Pedestrian Environmental Quality Index (PEQI) is a structured observational measure of urban walkability including five dimensions: intersection safety, traffic, street design, perceived safety, and land use. We performed an on-the-ground implementation of the PEQI with adaptations specifically for the Los Angeles context. We trained >30 community volunteers who collected data on every street and intersection in one neighborhood of Los Angeles. Walkability scores were computed and a Geographical Information System was used to generate maps of general walkability and specific issues such as sidewalk repair, litter and graffiti. Results: We succeeded in modifying the PEQI for LA, and in engaging community members on walkability and physical activity. Our target neighborhood exhibited acceptable walkability overall, but some major streets were identified as poor performers. Key problem areas included: litter, poor sidewalk condition, lack of wheelchair accessibility, and lacking crosswalks at some key intersections. We presented findings including priorities for policy change to local neighborhood councils and other government bodies. Conclusions: The PEQI required significant modification for the Los Angeles urban context, but our modifications were easy and successful. This project was highly successful in engaging community members and highlighting local problems in walkability for policy intervention. Work on new crosswalks and litter cleanup began in 2009-2010.