How do complete streets policies and legislative ordinances implement explicit wording regarding low-income populations and communities of color? A qualitative analysis

Overview: Active transportation, walking/bicycling for transportation, provides physical/mental health benefits to those who participate; however, there are inequities in participation among various populations, which creates health disparities among groups (racial/ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ communities, low-income, disabled/older individuals, youth/children, women). Complete Streets policies and legislative ordinances aim to ‘create useable streets for all’ in various cities across the United States; however, previous studies showed a lack of wording surrounding low-income populations and communities of color within these specific city-level literatures. The purpose of this current study was to qualitatively examine city-level policies/legislative ordinances addressed low-income populations and communities of color using thematic analysis. Methods: Complete Streets plans which had mentioned low-income populations and communities of color were obtained from a previous study and a public database. Thematic qualitative analysis was conducted to identify common themes. Results: Complete Streets initiatives (n = 57) were analyzed with various themes identified, including actionable strategies for implementation, identification of funding mechanisms, and others. Discussion: Complete Streets policies and legislative ordinancesguide key stakeholders to creating safe and accessible roads for populations of different demographics and traveling in different transportation modes. Underserved and under resourced populations need be included within policy/legislation literature to ensure equitable engagement within city-level Complete Streets plans.