Report from a community activist: Major research projects, accomplishments, and learnings over twenty years of work

Dr. Beine, is a family physician / medical educator. In 1992 she became very concerned about pedestrian safety, lack of sidewalks, and lack of neighborhood parks. She quickly recognized that a community's physical design has significant impact upon physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and economic well-being of its citizens. With a background of extensive community–based research and activism, Dr. Beine will present highlights of key accomplishments, learnings, tools to evaluate communities, recommendations and opportunities for synergy while working to improve your communities. A handout will be provided with key information and a list of resources and references. As a community activist Dr. Beine initially developed and conducted a major community research project, “Looking at Kingsport: A Visual Image Study.” Based upon data from 1,100 participants, the City of Kingsport, TN undertook a comprehensive review of its codes and ordinances. She is a co-author of the major report “VISCOR: Visual Image Study, Code and Ordinaces Review”, which recommended over 200 community design and ordinance changes. Many of these recommendations are currently being enacted in Kingsport. Subsequently, she developed a neighborhood survey assessing interest in retrofitting a sidewalk along a minor arterial. More recently, she co-authored an AARP pilot study, “A Livable Community Survey of the Greater Kingsport, TN Area,” with participation from 1,439 AARP and community members. This report has since been shared in communities throughout the country to use as a model for assessment and improving their livability.