Equity in Livability: Identifying systemic, operational, and systemic inequities in active transportation for socio-economic disadvantaged communities in Connecticut

"Equity in Livability" is a comprehensive research initiative focused on identifying and mitigating inequities in active transportation within socio-economically disadvantaged communities in Connecticut. The project is driven by alarming trends in pedestrian and cyclist fatalities, exacerbated by historical practices like redlining and infrastructure disparities, particularly in marginalized neighborhoods. This research will conduct an extensive literature review and data collection to analyze racial and socio-economic disparities in transportation safety. It will examine the disparities in access to safe active transportation infrastructure, focusing on factors such as race, ethnicity, and income, and develop methodologies to evaluate safety outcomes, considering both reported and underreported incidents. The project consists of two phases: the first involves data collection and preparation using crash data, U.S. Census sociodemographic information, and land use data; the second phase, proposed for Year 2, will develop econometric models to assess factors impacting pedestrian and cyclist safety and create a risk index for high-risk areas in Connecticut. This project seeks to provide actionable insights for urban planners and stakeholders, offering toolkits and strategies to combat transportation disparities and promote equitable mobility. The involvement of graduate research assistants will enhance the educational and research experience, contributing to the project's goals of understanding and improving the safety and quality of life in socio-economically disadvantaged communities.