June 2014

Building a Healthier Florida

About the Urban Land InstituteThe Urban Land Institute (ULI) is a nonprofit research and education organization whose mission is to provide leadership in the responsible use of land and creating and sustaining thriving communities worldwide. The Institute maintains a membership representing a broad spectrum of interests and sponsors a wide variety of educational programs and forums to encourage an open exchange of ideas and sharing of experience. ULI initiates research that anticipates emerging land use trends and issues, provides advisory services, and publishes a wide variety of materials to disseminate information on land use development.

Established in 1936, the Institute today has nearly 32,000 members and associates from 92 countries, representing the entire spectrum of the land use and development disciplines. Professionals represented include developers, builders, property owners, investors, architects, public officials, planners, real estate brokers, appraisers, attorneys, engineers, financiers, academics, students, and librarians.

ULI relies heavily on the experience of its members. It is through member involvement and information resources that ULI has been able to set standards of excellence in development practice. The Institute is recognized internationally as one of America’s most respected and widely quoted sources of objective information on urban planning, growth, and development.

Building Healthy PlacesIn January 2013, ULI’s Board of Directors approved a focus on healthy communities as a two-year cross-disciplinary theme for our organization. Through the Building Healthy Places Initiative, ULI is leveraging the power of its global networks to shape projects and places in ways that improve the health of people and communities.

About this ReportThe ULI Foundation provided a grant to ULI Florida, along with a statewide matching grant from Florida Blue and local sponsors, to convene stakeholders and complete a case study report for the five district councils in Florida on the Building Healthy Places initiative. Each District Council defined a geographic study area to facilitate a conversation with stakeholders about the opportunity to work collaboratively together on building healthy places.

The report summarizes each region’s workshop and geographic area. Many common themes emerged and discussions confirmed that we can build our way to better health, by changing our approach to the structure, form, and organization of our cities, communities, and places. As real estate leaders and stewards of the built environment, we can do more to improve lives and foster healthy outcomes. And along the way, we can create places of enduring value.

Special Thanks to:

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ContentsThe Healthy Places Opportunity ..............................................................................................................................4

About Building Healthy Places ................................................................................................................................5

ULI Building Healthy Places Publications ...............................................................................................................6

Ten Principles for Building Healthy Places ..............................................................................................................6

Wisdom from Experience ........................................................................................................................................8

A Community Worthy of a Child’s Attention ............................................................................................................9

Re-envisioning the College Parkway Corridor .......................................................................................................13

Miami: An Active, Global City ...............................................................................................................................17

The Future of the Northbank Riverfront District .....................................................................................................21

Tampa Bay: Thriving Cross-Sector Partnerships ...................................................................................................25

Appendix A: Terminology ......................................................................................................................................29

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According to America’s Health Rankings, published in 2013 by the United Health Foundation, Florida ranks 33rd in the U.S. in terms of the overall health of our citizens. These rankings, which look at numerous health measures, can be used by state and local organizations to form state health priorities, influence state and local policies, and transform state health systems. Significant measures include:

Almost 3.7 million Florida adults are physically inactive, and approximately 4 million Florida adults are obese. (Source: America’s Health Rankings, 2013)Florida ranks 50th of all 50 states for Bicyclist/Pedestrian Fatality Rates. (Source: The Alliance for Biking and Walking 2014 Benchmarking Report)Orlando-Kissimmee, Tampa - St. Petersburg - Clearwater, Jacksonville and Miami - Fort Lauderdale - Pompano Beach are the top four metropolitan areas in the nation on the Pedestrian Danger Index. (Source: Dangerous by Design 2014)Hit-and-run crashes involving fatalities increased from 162 in 2011 to 168 in 2012. (Source: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles)

In recent years, the Urban Land Institute (ULI) has become a leader in compiling and disseminating best practices to create healthy and sustainable communities. ULI Florida, encompassing five district councils in the state, received a grant to convene members of the Florida real estate industry, as well as business, civic, and community leaders to examine and update policies, procedures, and design standards to include those that promote health and well-being. This spring, these groups gathered in all five districts around the State to begin a conversation and take an inside look at our communities through a health and design perspective, asking the question: how can the built environment positively or negatively affect the health of our residents and visitors?

In this report, you will find a case study for each of the ULI’s District Councils in Florida: Central Florida, Southwest Florida, Southeast Florida/Caribbean, North Florida, and Tampa Bay. In each case study, we grouped recommendations into three categories: Policy, Programming, and Physical Infrastructure. As we traveled across the state, we heard many common themes, best practices, and some very strong messages to connect the built environment to health outcomes, including:

Inclusion of ideas and recommendations in official government planning policies. State and local jurisdictions regulate development projects and land use plans which are key to implementation. In fact, the Florida Department of Health, through its Healthy Weight Community Champion Recognition Program, identified 37 communities where local governments are playing an important role in decreasing the prevalence of unhealthy weight through implementation of policies that have been shown to increase physical activity levels and improve nutrition. Understanding and implementation of joint-use agreements. A better understanding of agreements facilitates sharing and leveraging community resources with schools, local governments, private organizations, and community neighborhoods. Streetscaping for added value. The addition of shade trees, enhanced lighting, wayfinding signage, and sidewalk/bike paths can add to an individual’s safety and peace of mind while walking or biking in our communities, and dramatically increase the numbers of people who bike and walk.Engagement of residents through programming/education opportunities. In addition to physical health, social and emotional well-being are key parts of a healthy community. Farmers markets, yoga in the park, family cooking classes, and cultural, historical or art-related events and festivals add social interactions for residents and visitors in the community.Communication of the economic value and return on investment. A recent ULI study entitled “Building for Wellness: The Business Case,” highlights 13 development projects that incorporate a variety of health and wellness features, and demonstrates how these features factored into the overall development and operations process, and how the market has responded.

The Healthy Places Opportunity

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Diane Trees, Ed.D.Co-Chair,

ULI Florida

Building Healthy Places

Associate Vice President,

Community Relations

University of Central Florida

James A. Moore, Ph.D., AIA,

AICP, LEED AP BD+C, ENV SP

Co-Chair,

ULI Florida

Building Healthy Places

Senior Vice President

HDR, Inc.

This summer, ULI Florida will convene members and community stakeholders to review, discuss, and expand upon the concepts and programs occurring across the state. We encourage you to join us in this mission to make Florida one of the healthiest states in the nation. Will you take a leadership role promoting ownership to implement these practices in your local community? We can make a difference.

Around the world, communities face pressing health challenges related to the built environment. For many years, ULI and its members have been active players in discussions and projects that make the link between human health and development; we know that health is a core component of thriving communities.

In January 2013, ULI’s Board of Directors approved a focus on healthy communities as a two-year cross-disciplinary theme for our organization. Through the Building Healthy Places Initiative, ULI is leveraging the power of its global networks to shape projects and places in ways that improve the health of people and communities. The organization is focusing on four main areas of impact:

Awareness. Raise awareness of the connections between health and the built environment in the real estate community, working to ensure that health is a mainstream consideration.Tools. Develop or share tools – including best practices, criteria, and other materials – that define and advance approaches to healthy buildings, projects, and communities.Value. Build understanding of the market and nonmarket factors at play in building healthy places, and the value proposition of building and operating in health-promoting ways.Commitments. Gain commitments from members and others, including local governments, to work, build, and operate in more health-promoting ways.

About Building Healthy Places

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Building for Wellness: The Business Case highlights 13 projects of varying product type and scale that were developed with health and wellness in mind and explores the business case for incorporating health into development projects. In a series of profiles, developers share their motivation for incorporating a variety of health and wellness features, how these features factored into the overall development and operations process, and how the market has responded. This report was produced in conjunction with ULI’s Center for Capital Markets and Real Estate. This report was released in April 2014.

ULI Building Healthy Places Publications

Intersections: Health and the Built Environment explores global health trends and makes the link between those trends and what has been happening to our built environment. It looks at the relationship between how healthy we are and the way our buildings and communities function. This report was released November 2013.

Ten Principles for Building Healthy Places, which distills lessons learned from the three Advisory Services panels ULI conducted in the spring of 2013, as well as insights from a workshop attended by experts from a variety of fields, sets out ten important principles that can be used to create a new approach to building healthy communities. This report was released November 2013.

Ten Principles for Building Healthy Places

1. Put People FirstIndividuals are more likely to be active in a community designed around their needs.

3. Empower Champions for HealthEvery movement needs its champions.

5. Make Healthy Choices EasyCommunities should make the healthy choice the one that is SAFE - safe, accessible, fun, and easy.

7. Mix it UpA variety of land uses, building types, and public spaces can be used to improve physical and social activity.

9. Promote Access to Healthy FoodAccess to healthy food should be considered a part of any development proposal.

2. Recognize the Economic ValueHealthy places can create enhanced economic value for both the private and public sectors.

4. Energize Shared SpacesPublic gathering places have a direct, positive impact on human health.

6. Ensuring Equitable AccessMany segments of the population would benefit from better access to services, amenities, and opportunities.

8. Embrace Unique CharacterPlaces that are different, unusual, or unique can be helpful in promoting physical activity.

10. Make it ActiveUrban design can be employed to create an active community.

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ULI North Florida » Northbank Riverfront District » Downtown Jacksonville

ULI Central Florida » Parramore Neighborhood » Downtown Orlando

ULI Tampa Bay » Eight-County Region

ULI Southeast Florida/Caribbean » Downtown Miami

ULI Southwest Florida » College Parkway Corridor » Ft. Myers - Cape Coral

ULI in Florida

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Dr. Richard Jackson participated in and spoke at the ULI Central Florida, North Florida, and Tampa Bay workshops. In each session, he provided a comprehensive overview of Building Healthy Places from his perspective as the previous director of the CDC National Center for Environmental Health, California Health Department and as a Pediatrician. He also had the opportunity to react to the panel presentations and discussions. His feedback included the following points:

Culture. Embrace and embed the culture into the community. Brand, personality, and pride can be a shared sentiment for all.Data. Have the numbers to quantify actions and drive change. Narrative. Grow local poets. Capture and tell good stories – they have power.Happiness. Build physical objects and social interaction – bringing joy/happiness to residents.Advocacy. Build support for coalitions. Become a safe harbor to express stronger views. Bring in more “uniformed” stakeholders (police, EMS, firefighters). Invite the health department in Master Plan development review and hearings…insist that the doctor is there.

Edward T. McMahon is a Senior Resident Fellow and Charles E. Fraser Chair for Sustainable Development and Environmental Policy at the Urban Land Institute (ULI). ULI initiated a new initiative last year where research, outreach, education and convening people would be centered on health in the built environment. The goal is to ignite a national discussion between the building and development community and the public health community. ULI has already provided several research, case studies and guiding principles on the issue including “Intersections: Health and the Built Environment” and “Building for Wellness: The Business Case.”

Health is a global issue. For years the development community has been building impediments to health and walkability. “We’ve engineered the physical activity out of our daily activities in our communities,” he said. Speaking at workshops in Southwest and Southeast/Caribbean District Councils, Ed McMahon provided the following examples for consideration in planning efforts locally:

Walking School Buses, engage the community and provide active physical activity for children in a safe environment.Locate new schools in walkable locations. Differentiate yourself to enhance your community’s uniqueness through arts, architecture, etc., which generates tourism revenue and a quality place to live for its residents.Create, preserve and utilize open/green spaces which will enhance value to residents. Community gardens, parks, and waterfront access provide increased value, just as golf courses do, yet without the excessive maintenance expenses.Build more partnerships – there is more to agree about than disagree.

McMahon suggested that “if the only solution to alleviate traffic congestion is to widen roadways than that is like loosening your belt to fight obesity. It doesn’t address the underlying problem which is the relationship between transportation and land use.”

Dr. Richard JacksonProfessor and Chair

Environmental Health

Science, UCLA

Fielding School of

Public Health,

Los Angeles

Edward T. McMahonSenior Resident Fellow

Charles E. Fraser

Chair for Sustainable

Development and

Environmental Policy,

Urban Land Institute

Wisdom from Experience

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IntroductionThis spring the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Central Florida gathered public, private, civic, and philanthropic leaders to begin a conversation and take an inside look at a downtown community that once thrived with rich cultural opportunities, music, and community life but has since fallen on hard times. That community is Parramore, in the City of Orlando west of the downtown core.

The intent of the workshop in Orlando was to take a look at Parramore in terms of walkability and mobility. Goals included:

identifying what has been done with respect to these key issuesidentifying what is currently underway and by whomuniting efforts by pooling resources and knowledgeidentifying best practices as a model for other areasrecommending short and long-term solutionssharing ideas with appropriate and interested sources

This workshop was a valuable educational and team-building opportunity to marshal resources and address local concerns through a united approach.

The PlaceThe Orlando metro area includes more than 2.2 million residents and is anchored by businesses in the life sciences, digital media and modeling, simulation and training industries. The Downtown Development Board describes the Parramore community as a diverse area of residential neighborhoods, businesses and industry west of the Downtown Orlando core.

In 1955 Parramore was a viable community with a positive self-image. Though segregated, more than 18,000 residents lived and worked in the community which included 15 churches, two schools, seven kindergartens, two hospitals, two attorney’s offices, eight doctors, and seven hotels. The Chamber of Commerce was active alongside several civic clubs.

Today, Parramore, has about 6,300 residents in 2,300 households. The median age is 40.1 with a 23.8% unemployment rate and median household income of just $15,493. A 2012 household survey conducted by the Health Council of East Central Florida for the Parramore Kids Zone found that:

87% say tutoring assistance is the most needed86% of families run out of money78% of parents need more help with their children

With a resurgence of growth in the downtown area, the community is expected to grow to more than 12,000 residents. As the community plan gets implemented, Parramore should attract even more residents.

A Community Worthy of a Child’s Attention

ULI Central Florida » Parramore Neighborhood » Downtown Orlando » Workshop: February 28, 2014

61% of children under 5 aren’t in childcare or Pre-k 41% of Parramore children have chronic health problems32% of children lost a loved one in the past year

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The ProjectTo set the stage for the breakout sessions, participants heard from keynote speaker, Dr. Richard Jackson, and a panel of local experts who shared best practices and experiences when implementing healthy strategies in a community.

Lisa Dilts, Compspring, cited a recent survey suggesting that current consumers prefer communities with healthy characteristics and noting that health amenities are becoming market standards in new developments. Such amenities include sidewalks, a community pool, trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and fitness centers. She cited a best practice in Albert Lea, Minn. where various health initiatives were launched in specific geographic areas called “Blue Zones” and measureable health outcomes were achieved.

Jill Hamilton Buss is the Executive Director of Healthy Central Florida, a community-based partnership that aims to get people moving more and eating healthier. She spoke about two Healthy Eatonville initiatives including organized walks with the Mayor and the establishment of a neighborhood facility called “Healthy Eatonville Place” opening in the spring of 2014. The facility is designed to be a place for health and wellness where residents can come for healthy cooking classes, diabetes and pre-diabetes education, support groups, testing, and more.

Audrey Alexander, Reducing Obesity in Central Florida Kids (ROCK), shared several examples of current projects in Central Florida. In the area of early learning, The Parramore Kidz Zone Baby Institute is a three-year pilot project for parents of children between the ages of birth to five years of age residing in the Parramore community. The nine-week Baby Institute is designed to help parents build knowledge and skills that result in better parenting, which will lead to better school readiness outcomes for children. Also within Parramore, in conjunction with the Health Council of East Central Florida, ROCK wrote the Call to Action Plan for the Parramore Community. This plan, a collaborative effort of several consortium partners, is now fostering social change that will prevent childhood obesity.

Lisa Portelli of the Winter Park Health Foundation looked at the long-term impacts the philanthropic community can influence through systemic policy change and investments. The foundation has supported policy development and information that forms policy through the use of health impact assessments, educational programs and community engagement. In the built environment, the foundation has provided funding for bike racks, fitness trails, community gardens and more. And finally, the desire to change an individual’s behavior to make healthier choices is also at the forefront of the organization’s goals.

After these four speakers, the breakout sessions focused participants on providing feedback on the healthy design principles identified for Parramore. Work in Parramore started as a U.S. Department of Housing and Community Development Regional Planning Grant awarded to the East Central Florida Sustainable Communities Consortium. The community plan identifies several key objectives:

Encourage fair, affordable and attainable housing with direct access to the LYNX Central and Church Street Station and to the residents of the neighborhoods that make up the Parramore Community; Re-establish the currently disjointed street grid and removing physical barriers to improve access from the Parramore Neighborhoods to SunRail and its connections to employment centers and regional commerce; Improve multi-modal (bike, pedestrian, transit) transportation opportunities for residents of the Parramore Community; and, Stage the transformation of the neighborhoods of Parramore into a sustainable community, while preserving the community assets and its characteristics by employing the principles of Healthy Community Design.

Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB), a recognized East Coast urban design, planning, transportation, land development and environmental consulting firm with Florida offices in Orlando and Sarasota, was selected by the City of Orlando to prepare a comprehensive Neighborhood plan for the Parramore Community.

The Parramore Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan Goals are to:

Engage citizens in a visioning process that defines the community they want.Prepare a detailed and illustrated Vision Plan for Parramore.Connect to SunRail and Downtown Orlando in an environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable manner.

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VHB has extensive knowledge of Orlando, and the team spent time researching the history of the area as well as past and current initiatives. The City has already made significant strides toward revitalizing the Parramore Community through the work of Mayor Buddy Dyer’s Parramore Task Force, the Pathways for Parramore Initiative and the actions of the Parramore Kidz Zone, a neighborhood-based collaborative program modeled after the Harlem Children’s Zone. VHB’s plan will emphasize community health, not just the physical environment, but all factors that work toward a healthy community. Starting with ULI’s Ten Principles for Building Healthy Places, VHB customized and added one additional principle for the project as seen below:

Healthy Community Design Principles for the Comprehensive Neighborhood Plan:

1. Prioritize People over Cars2. Drive Economic Development by Creating a Unique Identity3. Empower Champions for Healthy Community4. Promote Social Interaction to Overcome Isolation 5. Make Healthy Choices Easier6. Emphasize Mixed Use Development7. Promote Access to Healthy Food8. Embrace Unique Character9. Maximize the Opportunity for all Residents to Get Physical Activity10. Improve Access to Job Opportunities11. Design Neighborhoods Around Schools

The Results

Policy

Establish more “Safe Routes to School” (SRTS) programs. SRTS is a national program administered locally by parents, schools, community leaders and governments to improve the health and well-being of children by encouraging them to walk and bicycle to school.Seek “Communities for a Lifetime” designation. Communities for a Lifetime is a statewide initiative created to help Florida communities become better places for elders to live, providing all residents the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of their community.Develop more Joint-Use Agreements (JUA). ChangeLab Solutions describes a JUA as a formal agreement between two separate government entities – often a school and a city or county – setting forth terms and conditions for shared use of public property or facilities. Consider Renaissance Zones such as those in Michigan/Detroit. Renaissance Zones are state designations that allow for the creation of tax exempt zones designed to spur growth in economically distressed communities.Utilize resources associated with Community Redevelopment Areas (CRA) and Brownfields. Brownfields are sites for which their expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by actual or perceived contamination. CRAs are geographically defined areas designated by local governments, where conditions such as a shortage of affordable housing, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient roadways exist. Work to increase the number of Farmers Markets that can accept SNAP/WIC/EBT. Consideration should be given to extend the dollar amounts given when purchasing healthy foods.

Physical Infrastructure

Add more streetscape features including sidewalks, lighting, shade trees, and signage.Consider senior playgrounds with equipment accessible for use by all ages, especially elder populations.Locate Health Centers within close proximity to the residents to ensure access to care.

“This is more than just another plan. Many of us grew up in Orlando and know the Parramore community where businesses and churches prospered and musicians traveled far and wide to perform. Working alongside the city and local residents will provide the opportunity to preserve and revive the best parts of its past and transform Parramore into a healthy community where people from diverse backgrounds want to live, work, and be entertained.”

Jim Sellen, VHB Florida Planning Practice Leader

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Include a variety of housing choices in new housing developments oriented towards the different generations, as well as mixed-income housing, and mixed-use developments that incorporate retail/office with residential.Work to ensure historic preservation of culturally significant properties.Ensure that fencing is not used for purposes that limit access to community assets.Establish more community gardens.

Programming

Assist communities in telling their story/branding their community and flood the media with positive news.Reduce the fear of crime in a community through the front porch concept/theory by providing additional eyes on the street and encouraging more social interaction.Employ the use of Mobile Medical Units in neighborhoods where residents can access care and educational programming and screenings.Identify Community Navigators, individuals who are easily identified, accessible, and can provide un-biased guidance to residents on services and programs offered in the community.Form common interest groups that assemble on issues/topics of interest to residents.Utilize spaces near schools that can be utilized for outdoor labs. Bring educational/lifelong learning programs into the community. Grow and engage more residents in arts and sports programs.Engage Community Policing officers to establish a presence and connection to the community.

Looking AheadToday, residents and community leaders are working for change in Parramore. The work is part of a larger regional planning effort collectively referred to as the East Central Florida Sustainable Communities Consortium. The set of 11 healthy design principles are being considered and prioritized with residents. Residents are engaging in the process and becoming part of the movement to implement change, create a community with culture, sports and recreational amenities, create housing and job opportunities for those who live there, and improve the health of their neighbors, friends and children.

Local Workshop Sponsors

» Florida Blue » Metroplan Orlando » Orlando Magic

» UCF Metro Center » VHB Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc.

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Re-envisioning the College Parkway Corridor

IntroductionThe Urban Land Institute (ULI) Southwest Florida District Council convened residents and stakeholders this spring to facilitate a conversation on the value and guiding principles of Building Healthy Places, a national initiative designed to improve health outcomes through the built environment. ULI selected a segment of the College Parkway Corridor between Summerlin Road and McGregor Boulevard, a commercial and residential area between Fort Myers and Cape Coral in Lee County, Fla. for further discussion and evaluation.

The PlaceThe College Parkway Corridor, located in Fort Myers, is the chosen study area for the ULI Building Healthy Places Initiative. Fort Myers, within Lee County in Southwest Florida, is centrally located between Tampa and Miami on Interstate 75. The metropolitan area of Cape Coral-Fort Myers has been one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, and attracts millions of visitors each year in addition to its 600,000 residents. According to the Lee County Economic Development Office, the growth of the County’s 18-24 year-old population – those available to enter the workforce – is outpacing the national average.

Fort Myers is the commercial center and government hub of Lee County. The Fort Myers Regional Partnership identified a diverse set of industries that make up the county’s business sectors including Aviation, Professional Services, Life Sciences, Information Technology and Manufacturing (see map on following page).

Easy access via air and interstate facilitate doing business in this part of the State. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) serves a diverse domestic market and rapidly growing global market while offering a full array of cargo services. Interstate 75 provides direct access to points east (Miami) and north (Tampa), while nearby rail and seaports provide convenient alternatives for distribution. The area is also served by LeeTran providing one local bus service route along the length of the Corridor with several stops.

The College Parkway Corridor is a major thoroughfare between Fort Myers and Cape Coral, another large municipality in Lee County, reached by the Parkway connection to the Cape Coral Bridge. The Corridor’s close proximity to major interstates/highways and airports makes it a prime location for businesses and residents. It is just over seven miles from I-75, one mile from US-41, 13 miles from RSW International Airport and 4.7 miles from Page Field, a business and general aviation airport.

The ProjectThe College Parkway Corridor, both a residential and commercial area, covers approximately 15 square miles with the segment study area approximately 1.5 miles in length. The Corridor is home to Edison State College, soon to be renamed Florida Southwestern State College, with nearly 17,000 students. The Lee County Department of Community Development describes the Corridor as largely a route for moving people by car from Cape Coral to Fort Myers with the lack of a connected street network. This segment of the Corridor is often passed through on the way to somewhere else, resulting in a potential loss of patronage to area businesses.

Moving around in the Corridor as a pedestrian or by bicycle can be a harrowing experience, reducing the desire to use alternative forms of transportation. Sidewalks end abruptly, streetlights and signs are centered within the sidewalks without adequate width to accommodate pedestrians safely, especially those with disabilities. There are also concerns about blight and loss of economic vitality. The redevelopment

ULI Southwest Florida » College Parkway Corridor » Ft. Myers - Cape Coral » Workshop: March 12, 2014

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effort is a way for the community to consider alternatives to safely move throughout the Corridor, attract new businesses, and grow existing businesses.

The ULI initiative, Building Healthy Places, ties the built environment to health outcomes. According to health data from Lee County Health Forecast, the following indicators compare Lee County to Florida, the U.S. and Healthy People 2020, a national and widely accepted set of health promotion and disease prevention goals.

The ULI Southwest Florida District Council convened a workshop on the College Parkway Corridor for stakeholders from various interests such as development, health, government, and area residents to discuss the need for redevelopment of the Corridor. The workshop involved studying existing conditions, identifying the unique needs of the area, and making recommendations on how redevelopment might take place and ways to engage area business owners. Various organizations in the region, including the College Parkway Redevelopment Group, Lee County Department of Health, Lee Memorial Health System, and Lee County Economic Development Office, were actively engaged throughout the workshop.

The ResultsEd McMahon, Senior Resident Fellow and Charles E. Fraser Chair for Sustainable Development and Environmental Policy at ULI, provided the keynote address at the workshop and engaged participants in discussion that centered around the factors that could make College Parkway a healthy place. The community’s primary goals are to:

Balance a high level of service for vehicular traffic in and out of Cape Coral with a high level of service for multi-modal transportation within the community.Develop the Corridor as a destination with a unified community character, not just as a thoroughfare.Improve pedestrian and bike safety through design features.

Policy

Lee County’s Comprehensive Plan focuses on protecting rural areas, supporting suburban neighborhoods, and targeting locations for higher densities with incentives. The Land Development Code for Compact Communities provides development regulations that will create compact walkable neighborhoods and mixed-use centers. Lee County Community Development & Planning designed the following design goals and principles:

Source: www.leecounty.healthforecast.net

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A compact physical form with identifiable centers and edges, with opportunities for shopping and workplaces near residential neighborhoods.A highly interconnected street network, to disperse traffic and provide convenient alternative routes for pedestrians and bicyclists.High-quality public spaces, with building facades having windows and doors facing tree-lined streets, plazas, squares, or parks.Diversity not homogeneity, with a variety of building types, street types, open spaces, and land uses providing for people of all ages and every form of mobility.Resiliency and sustainability, allowing adaptation over time to changing economic conditions and broader transportation options.

Conventional zoning separates land uses and requires off-street parking on every site. As a result, development is spread thinly across the landscape, essentially requiring automobiles for every trip. As an alternative, the Compact Communities Code aims to create compact walkable neighborhoods and mixed use centers using form-based code techniques. The Form Based Codes Institute cites several advantages to residents, business owners, and developers, including:

public participationthe ability to regulate development at the scale of an individual building or lotencouragement for independent development by multiple property ownersthe reflection of a diversity of architecture, materials, uses, and ownership that can only come from the actions of many independent players operating within a communally agreed-upon vision and legal framework

The Lee County Compact Communities Plan and Code was adopted in 2010 and has received numerous recognitions nationwide. There was considerable discussion amongst the participants and further interest in learning about how the Comprehensive Plan and Compact Communities Code could be applied in the Corridor. This code is being applied in other parts of the county and could be a tool when trying to communicate and visualize the future Corridor.

In addition to redevelopment, including blighted areas or vacant properties, there was a strong desire to reconfigure traffic flow through the corridor in a manner that would balance a high level of service for vehicular traffic in and out of Cape Coral with a high level of service for multi-modal transportation within the community that would improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety. Enhancements to street configuration and storefronts could also encourage drivers within the Corridor to stop and patronize local businesses.

Finally, the group also would like to explore the use of joint-use agreements for public events and programs on private or government properties.

Physical Infrastructure

The physical appearance and structural improvements desired in the Corridor remain a top priority. Items recommended include:

Improve pedestrian safety by installing walkways/bridges over the Corridor. This would maintain traffic flow through the Corridor as well.Enhance the beautification of the Corridor through streetscape projects such as the addition of plants and shade trees.Add lighting and make repairs to sidewalks or add sidewalks to improve the safety of pedestrians.Reconfigure road lanes as a means to enable business visibility, enhance the safety of pedestrians/bicyclists, but also maintain a smooth flow of traffic.Place new buildings closer to the street with parking in the rear or on the side to make the Corridor more pedestrian friendly.Start with a pilot project that demonstrates added value to the Corridor and could help build momentum for future projects.

“The idea behind the project isn’t to add new restrictions, but to create more opportunities and more options for residents, business owners, and developers.”

Chris Ressler, LEED AP Senior Project Director at Studio+ President of the College Parkway Redevelopment Group (CPRG)

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Looking AheadParticipants from the ULI Southwest Florida College Parkway Corridor workshop provided additional feedback for consideration by the College Parkway Redevelopment Group and the other stakeholders. There is a strong desire to engage the business community and private land owners in the discussion of the Corridor. The participants want to be sure to address the needs and desires of all stakeholders in future development. ULI has recently published a new research report, “Building for Wellness: The Business Case,” which should assist those seeking detailed real estate data and design strategies in support of building healthier places.

The community is also interested in taking bus tours of similar projects in the state to learn about and visualize the Corridor’s potential while learning from the challenges other communities faced. There is a formal effort underway with Lee County to develop a detailed Regulating Plan for the Corridor in coordination with area stakeholders, as well as to define small pilot projects that can lead the way to bigger opportunities in the Corridor. The County and civic groups involved in the process are working hard to engage additional residents, area business owners, and religious institutions to create a healthier community for its current and future residents.

“Intelligent design is paramount to successfully integrate residential and commercial interests in any redevelopment program. Only through careful consideration by a diverse group of residents, county planners, and local business owners can this be achieved.”

Ryan LefflerDirector, Southwest Florida, Office and Healthcare ServicesColliers International

Local Workshop Sponsors

» Florida Blue » Estero Council of Community Leaders » Neal Communities

» Focus Development Group » Hertz/Dollar/Thrifty » The Pavich Family at Realty World Florida

Photo Credit: Shellie Johnson

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IntroductionThe Urban Land Institute (ULI) Southeast Florida/Caribbean District Council footprint covers Florida’s seven southern coastal counties and the Caribbean Islands. As part of the statewide Building Healthy Places initiative, the District Council convened a workshop for stakeholders from diverse interests such as development, health, safety, open space/recreation, and government active within the City of Miami. Various organizations in the region, including the South Florida Regional Planning Council, the Miami Downtown Development Authority, and the AIA Miami Chapter, are already leaders in this initiative, and were strong workshop partners. The workshop was designed to learn about and discuss strategies for building a healthier Downtown Miami – an urban setting that serves as a bustling work/live/play hub and also as a top international tourism destination.

The PlaceMiami is an active, urban, global city with bustling residential neighborhoods, and a diverse, thriving business district. Downtown is home to many major museums, parks, education centers, banks, company headquarters, courthouses, government offices, theaters, shops, and many of the oldest buildings in the city.

The area is the cultural, financial, and commercial center of South Florida, tracing its present-day history back to the 19th century. In recent years, Downtown Miami has grown to become the fastest-growing area in Miami, and is a gateway not only to the Americas, but Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

The City of Miami is located in Miami-Dade County, which is the largest metropolitan area in the State of Florida, representing 13.5 percent of the State’s population, and the seventh largest county in the Nation. With more than 2.5 million residents, both the County and the City are extremely diverse, ethnically and culturally. (Source: U.S. Census)

Port Miami and Miami International Airport (MIA), both located adjacent to Miami’s downtown core, are two of the County’s key economic engines, not merely for tourism but also for cargo shipping. Ongoing investments in these important assets are working to make sure they are state of the art. MIA, ranks as the world’s eleventh busiest airport for cargo according to the Airports Council International 2013 study, and it has the second largest percentage of international passengers in the United States according to the MIA website.

As part of its efforts to promote healthy recreation activities, in 2013 the City installed fitness equipment for public use in several parks fostering wellness and community building for generations to come.

The ProjectThe City of Miami’s downtown core was identified as ULI’s Building Healthy Places workshop study area. According to a 2013 Community Health Needs Assessment by the Health Council of South Florida, residents in the sample representing Downtown Miami ranked themselves less favorably when compared to overall county residents in several health outlined in the following table:

ULI invited a panel of stakeholders with expertise in Building Healthy Places to share information on factors that make an urban core healthy and programs and actions currently underway or proposed to enhance opportunities in the urban core for a more active, healthier lifestyle. Panelist comments included:

Miami: An Active, Global City

ULI Southeast Florida/Caribbean

» Downtown Miami » Workshop: March 13, 2014

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Cheryl Jacobs, Executive Vice President of American Institute of Architects (AIA) Miami, explained AIA’s Active Design Guidelines as a tool for making healthy choices easier through changes in the built environment. Active Design Guidelines provide architects and urban designers with strategies for creating healthier buildings, streets, and urban spaces, based on the latest academic research and best practices in the field. The Guidelines include:

Urban design strategies for creating neighborhoods, streets, and outdoor spaces that encourage walking, bicycling, and active transportation and recreation.Building design strategies for promoting active living where we work and live and play, through the placement and design of stairs, elevators, and indoor and outdoor spaces.Discussion of synergies between active design with sustainable and universal design initiatives such as Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED), a green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices and PlaNYC 2030, an initiative to prepare New York City for one million more residents, to strengthen its economy, combat climate change, and enhance the quality of life for all New Yorkers.

AIA Miami is adapting the guidelines to South Florida community needs, and hopes to promote adoption by the 34 municipalities in Miami-Dade County.

Jack Kardys, Director, Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation & Open Space Division leads efforts to develop and implement the countywide Parks Plan. This Plan looks not only at designated parks, but at the entire public realm as an opportunity to activate and program spaces. The Department focuses on educating people to create the demand so that developers, policymakers, and partners will have an easy choice to make that adds value to all parties. Discussion centered around creating more active open spaces in the urban core, especially relating to the bay and the river waterfronts. With miles of ocean, bay and canal frontage in the downtown area, residents/visitors would like to see more access points for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and other water sports.

Chris Sopher, a Journalism Program Associate with the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation focused on building engaged communities. A 2008 Gallup and Knight Foundation study, “Knight Soul of the Community,” found three main qualities that attach people to place: social offerings, such as entertainment venues and places to meet, openness (how welcoming a place is); and the area’s aesthetics (its physical beauty and green spaces). Today, the Miami Foundation sponsors the “Our Miami Public Space Challenge” to encourage Miamians to post ideas that will build vibrant public spaces, and a stronger sense of community by sparking social engagement. Community experts and professional placemakers will select the best ideas, and then the Knight Foundation and the Health Foundation of South Florida will help fund implementation of the projects relating to promotion of healthy, physical exercise activities, and access to fresh food through gardens and farmer’s markets.

Jessica Josselyn, Associate Planner with Kittelson & Associates, Inc., an expert in the Complete Streets program, spoke of Miami’s potential and the need to move people through a variety of transportation choices. As a young professional who utilizes transit options, she emphasized the need to plan and build a more integrated transportation system attuned to the choices and modes used by all generations.

Karen Weller, RN, BSN, MBA-HSM is the Director of the Office of Community Health and Planning for the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County. The Department focuses on providing access to healthcare and on healthy foods for the entire

Source: www.miamidadematters.org

“AIA Miami’s goal is to work with all of our municipalities to adopt these important Active Design Guidelines.” Cheryl H. Jacobs Executive Vice President AIA Miami @ Miami Center for Architecture & Design

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community. In 2003, The Miami-Dade County Health Department convened and created the Consortium for a Healthier Miami-Dade, comprised of more than 161 organizations, united by the common belief that through collaboration and prevention-focused initiatives, residents can live longer, happier and healthier. Consortium initiatives are guided by the goals established in Healthy People 2020. Healthy People 2020 is a comprehensive, nationwide health promotion and disease prevention agenda that contains objectives designed to improve the health of all.

Ken Stapleton, President & CEO, Stapleton & Associates, Inc. spoke about real and perceived safety in the urban core. “Safety is a principle we as a society will not compromise,” he said. He discussed strategies helpful in the design of the built/physical environment that help alleviate the fear of crime. Beyond uniformed law enforcement, cities can work together to create opportunities for informal social interactions like splash pads, dog parks, and front porches that put more eyes on the street, while also creating healthier, more active environments.

Alyce Robertson, Executive Director, Miami Downtown Development Authority (DDA), cited sobering statistics about Miami’s urban core:

South Florida is the fourth most dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrians. (Source: Dangerous by Design, 2014) In 2009, 69 pedestrian crashes resulted in fatalities in the county. (Source: Miami Dade Health Department)Hit-and-run crashes involving fatalities increased from 162 in 2011 to 168 in 2012. (Source: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles)

These statistics and others are the motivation behind the Miami DDA advocating to establish a downtown Pedestrian Priority Zone. The designation promotes 10 principles for improving pedestrian safety, and the Miami DDA is working with the City of Miami and the Florida Department of Transportation on implementation. The Miami DDA’s Master Plan was created with the goal of transforming Miami’s urban core into the “Epicenter of the Americas,” and making the urban core a healthier, safer place. Greater coordination and support is needed to make this a reality.

The Results

Policy

Throughout the workshop, attendees expressed concern that many departments within local government lack coordination thus inhibiting efforts to deliver an environment that residents have designated as most desirable. Competing interests and multi-leveled authority – or no authority – to make changes are a major impediment. Regardless, participants expressed a strong demand to move aggressively forward with specific recommendations that included:

Creation and adoption of Active Design Guidelines, such as those in New York City’s “Fit City” program. Implementation of Complete Streets Policies that direct transportation planners and engineers to design roadways to enable safer access for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation. In this manner, every transportation project will make the street network safer for drivers, transit users, pedestrians, and bicyclists, creating a more livable community. Creation of more mobility options such as “Cars2Go,” a car-sharing program available in major European and North American cities.Implementation of recommended policies available in Florida’s Greenbook, the Manual of Uniform Minimum Standards for Design, Construction and Maintenance for Streets and Highways, published by Florida DOT.Creation of Pedestrian Priority Zones to clearly identified geographic areas of the urban core using these strategies that put people first with safe, accessible, walkable areas for getting around.

“Historically, roads have been designed with the car in mind and the pedestrian as an afterthought. We are looking to make the pedestrian experience in Downtown Miami safer, more enjoyable, shadier and create places for people not cars.”

Alyce RobertsonExecutive Director of the Miami Downtown Development Authority

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Continue implementation of the Downtown Development Master Plan, a 15-year roadmap for enhancing the livability and quality of life in Downtown Miami. Implementation and expansion of the Parks and Open Space Master Plan to create a seamless, sustainable system of parks recreation, and conservation open spaces in the urban core, especially helping to activate the waterfront. Encouraging advocates to become more politically active and coalesce around Building Healthy Places strategies to influence change with local, state, and federal agencies charged with oversight of the urban core.

Physical Infrastructure

Throughout the workshop, participants expressed opinions and concerns about the several infrastructure barriers that discourage safe passage/walkability through the urban core. Specific examples, including those addressed in the Pedestrian Priority Zones proposed by the DDA included:

Addition of crosswalks, pedestrian walk lights, and other traffic calming changes, especially on high traffic. corridors such as Flagler Street and Biscayne Boulevard.Addition of curb ramps that align sidewalks with crosswalks.Reduction of lane widths that slow down traffic, especially on Biscayne Boulevard.Addition of streetscape elements, including shade trees and enhanced lighting.Review design of new parking garages in order to reduce domination of the streetscape.

There were also concerns about access to healthy, fresh food. While many factors may affect the rising obesity trends nationally, increasing access to healthier options throughout the neighborhoods, schools, child care centers, and work sites is one approach to fighting obesity and death from diet-related causes. Encourage community gardens and farmers markets to help promote access to healthier choices for all residents.

Looking AheadParticipants from the ULI workshop expressed a desire to continue the conversation on how to make Miami’s urban core, as well as other South Florida communities, healthier and safer places. The Southeast Florida/Caribbean District Council will continue its partnership with the wide network of community organizations currently working to make our communities more livable places.

Local Workshop Sponsors

» Florida Blue » AIA Miami

» Miami Downtown Development Authority » South Florida Regional Planning Council

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IntroductionAs part of its Building Healthy Places initiative, ULI North Florida in partnership with AIA Jacksonville, conducted a community exercise focused on the Northbank Riverfront District. An expert panel comprised of 16 public, private and civic leaders discussed and explored opportunities to shape projects and places along the Northbank in ways that promote healthy living.

The panelists included Melody Bishop, Akel Logan Shafer; Commissioner Lori Boyer, Jacksonville City Council Member; Dr. Dawn Emerick, Executive Director, The Health Planning Council of Northeast Florida; Nathaniel Ford, CEO, Jacksonville Transportation Authority; Preston Haskell, Chairman, The Haskell Company; Terry Lorince, Executive Director, Downtown Vision Inc.; Eric Mann, President & CEO, The YMCA; Jerry Mallot, President, JAXUSA Partnership; Alan Mosely, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce; Jimmy Orth, Executive Director, St. Johns Riverkeeper; Bob Rhodes, Attorney at Law; Brian Teeple, CEO, Northeast Florida Regional Planning Council; Aundra Wallace, Executive Director, Downtown Investment Authority, City of Jacksonville; Ben Warner, President & CEO, JCCI; and Carol Westmoreland, Executive Director, Florida Redevelopment Association, Tallahassee. The panel was chaired by Dr. Richard Jackson, Chair, Environmental Health Sciences/Professor, Urban Planning Environmental Health Sciences, Institute of the Environment & Sustainability, UCLA.

The PlaceJacksonville is a rapidly growing city in Northeast Florida, with approximately 850,000 residents. While it is the largest city in area in the continental United States, the downtown is its historic core. The downtown features major corporations, residential neighborhoods, sports, entertainment and cultural venues. The heart of downtown is the Northbank Riverfront District, centered on the St. Johns River between Margaret Street on the west and Liberty Street on the east.

The ProjectThe Northbank Riverfront District is currently zoned for entertainment, commercial and residential uses. For the purpose of this exercise, the district was geographically divided into five zones. Major stakeholders from each zone, including private corporations, non-profit organizations and governmental entities, were invited to participate in the exercise.

The 20 stakeholders who participated were asked to review ULI’s Ten Principles for Building Healthy Places and the Healthy Outcomes based on the following chart.

Each of the 20 stakeholders was then asked to make a presentation to the expert panel. The presentations outlined the history of their projects, if and how the organizations currently integrate any of the 10 principles into their projects, and what principles they might be able to apply to future projects. Additionally, the participants provided ideas for improvements they view as integral in creating a healthy, vibrant riverfront community.

ULI North Florida » Northbank Riverfront District » Workshop: March 26, 2014

The Future of the Northbank Riverfront District

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1. Put People FirstPrioritize people over cars.Encourage walking, biking and other physical activity by everyone.Create safe access for all road users; pedestrians, cyclists, public transit users and motorists. Healthy Outcomes – Increase in physical activity; decrease in obesity; decrease in pedestrian injuries/deaths

2. Recognize the Economic ValueDrive economic development and prosperity by creating unique places and community differentiation.There is increased market demand for walkable, mixed-use, transit-rich communities.Healthy Outcomes – Increase sustainable business community and neighborhood economy; decrease in crime; increase in number of “happy days”

3. Empower Champions for Healthy CommunityCommunicate the benefits.Encourage grassroots actions.Broaden the base.Forge unlikely partnerships.Healthy Outcomes – Increase in local leadership and citizens engagement

4. Energize Shared SpacesPromote social interactions to overcome isolation.Take back the street.Rethink public places.Program early and often.Encourage public/private cooperation.Healthy Outcomes – Increase in social interaction; increase in physical activity; decrease in obesity; decrease in crime

5. Make Healthy Choices EasyMake it SAFE - Safe, Accessible, Fun & Easy.Increase mobility and transit options .Make sure people feel safe walking and biking.Develop a system of signage for pedestrians and cyclists.Healthy Outcomes – Increase in physical activity; decrease in obesity; decrease in pedestrian injuries/deaths

6. Ensure Equitable AccessDesign for all ages, abilities and socioeconomic status.Connect people to jobs, services and amenities.Increase transit choices.Make schools the center of neighborhoods.Healthy Outcomes – Increase in access to daily services, jobs and school attendance; decrease in obesity; decrease in crime

7. Mix it UpIncentivize mixed-uses and density.Remove regulatory barriers.Rethink parking.Healthy places also mix incomes, generations and housing types.Healthy Outcomes – Increase in physical activity; decrease in obesity; decrease auto-dependence

8. Embrace Unique CharacterIdentify historical and cultural assets for preservation and celebration.Integrate natural systems and assets.Healthy Outcomes – Improve quality of life; increase in number of “happy days”

9. Promote Access to Healthy FoodRethink the grocery store.Make food a destination.Incorporate access to healthy food into local land use and economic policy.Healthy Outcomes – Increase in nutrition; decrease in illness; decrease in obesity

10. Make it ActiveCo-locate recreational activities for children and adults; for residents and workers.Begin every trip with a walk.Create a continuous, interconnected pedestrian and bicycle network.Design buildings and places for flexibility; multifunction is the future.Healthy Outcomes – Increase in physical activity; decrease in obesity

Ten Design Principles & Healthy Outcomes

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The ResultsMany excellent initiatives are under way that promote healthy lifestyles, such as Florida Blue’s farmer’s market for employees or CSX’s incentives for employees to carpool and eat healthy on campus. However, as one panelist noted, most of the presenters appeared to operate in silos, as opposed to understanding how they can work together.

As the expert panel discussed the presentations and their visions for needed improvements, several common themes emerged that fell into three categories: policy, programming and physical infrastructure. From these conversations, very specific recommendations emerged.

Policy

Seek designation of the St. Johns River as a linear park in Downtown.Increase public accessibility to the Riverwalk through existing public and private access points (including setback requirements and mandatory linear easements).Implement the Five Points Concept Plan, Dog Park and the Artist Walk.Evaluate shared parking strategies and policies through a private parking alliance prior to adding any new parking.Improve bike and pedestrian connectivity along Riverside Avenue to Water Street.Improve the safety of this area by increasing police patrol or by making environmental enhancements that have been shown to reduce crime and vandalism.Consider placemaking efforts in the form of public art and other visual amenities.Preserve and enhance existing public perpendicular access to the Riverwalk, and locate additional access points.Develop a comprehensive plan for maintenance that incorporates the existing businesses along the Riverwalk to help maintain a healthy environment (better disposal of cigarettes, garbage, etc.).Expand accessibility and hours of operation of area boat ramps (through FDOT).

Physical Infrastructure

Provide wayfinding for bikes/pedestrians (both physical and digital - for example an App).Provide wayfinding for public parking and access to the Riverwalk that includes an educational tool about the history, ecology, culture, etc., of downtown and the river.Wayfinding should also describe public transit stops, Skyway stations, and Trolley services.Expand and improve the boat ramp at Riverside Arts Market.Extend the Riverwalk from Riverside Arts Market to Memorial Park.Extend the 10-foot unobstructed sidewalk in front of The Cummer Museum and Gardens from Riverside Arts Market to Memorial Park.Widen sidewalks on Park Street and Riverside Avenue.Improve walkability of Riverside Avenue from the Acosta Bridge to the Fuller Warren Bridge.Evaluate repurposing existing auto lanes for bike/pedestrian facility (Acosta bridge ramps).Any expansion to Park Street should be for bike/pedestrian only.Provide the water taxi with a public dock at Jackson Street and other locations.Develop designated walking paths from the Central Skyway Station to the river (along Pearl Street) and include wayfinding for Skyway entrances.Consider incorporating a public art requirement on all new projects (could also be applied to other zones).Demolish the old Courthouse building immediately and keep as Green Space until future plans for property are adopted. Add shade and seating throughout the area in Zone 5 of study map.

“ULI’s commitment to Building Healthy Places will make a positive impact here in Jacksonville. The exercise brought many different organizations and local businesses together to discuss key issues that will be especially valuable for the Downtown Investment Authority’s forthcoming CRA.”

Aundra WallaceCEODowntown Investment Authority Jacksonville, FL

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Provide additional access points to the river for kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft to promote additional active opportunities for exercise on the River.Ensure the environmental health of the St. John’s River and add “Do No Harm” signage to prevent pollution, etc.Add a taxi stop at the end of Post Street to connect with Five Points/Cummer/Memorial.Improve and secure perpendicular linkage/access to the Riverwalk, including improvment to Roselle Street.Encourage additional bike and pedestrian connectivity across the River and enhance the existing connections.

Programming

Prioritize beautification and greening of the Riverwalk as a “Park” by utilizing indigenous, Florida-friendly materials with existing landscape.Florida Blue’s current Farmer’s Market could make a larger impact if neighboring companies were invited to participate; or the companies in this zone could collaborate and plan healthy food markets for all employees and alternate hosting/planning the markets.Coordinate and energize public space along the River with programming (especially near CSX, Times Union, Unity Plaza, and The Jacksonville Landing as well as with public spaces outside the study area, such as Hemming Plaza).Ensure there is a comprehensive and coordinated bike sharing/valet program through the City of Jacksonville, with a potential hub at the Jacksonville Chamber building, and additional hubs throughout the area.Encourage additional bike and pedestrian connectivity across the River and enhance the existing connections.Implement interactive, hands-on activities and features along the Riverwalk to engage children and adults. For example, a small playscape, or interactive art installation.

Looking AheadThe expert panel seeks to identify parties who will be accountable for implementation and build a cadre of champions who can advocate for the priorities. There is also a strong desire to demonstrate success – implement quick, easy wins that will be visible to the general public and continue attracting residents, future residents and visitors.

ULI North Florida and AIA Jacksonville are committed to continuing the conversation, educating both the stakeholders and panelists in future opportunities and will continue to engage the community in opportunities to pursue easy healthy choices for its current and future residents.

Local Workshop Sponsors

Statewide Sponsor » Florida Blue

Hearty & Hale Level Sponsors » St. Vincent’s Healthcare » The Haskell Company

Wellness Sponsors » AIA Jacksonville » Blackwater Capital LLC » CSX » Gresham Smith & Partners » Jacksonville Civic Council » RS&H

Energy Sponsors » Baptist Health » JEA

Good Health Sponsors » Mark Macco Architects » Stellar

The BHP workshop kicked off with a walk/trolley tour of the

Northbank Riverfront Distrcit.

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IntroductionThe Urban Land Institute (ULI) Tampa Bay represents an eight-county region where public and private partners have joined forces to invest in short and long-term improvements that will not only enhance its infrastructure, but provide health benefits to residents and visitors as well. In late March, ULI Tampa Bay hosted a workshop to engage stakeholders in a conversation about how to make Tampa Bay a healthier place. A panel of healthcare, community, development, design, and planning professionals came together to discuss how to best leverage opportunities and elevate statewide conversations about health and the built environment.

The PlaceThe Tampa Bay region consists of four contiguous metropolitan areas: Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater; North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton; Lakeland-Winter Haven, and Homosassa Springs. The region includes the eight counties of Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, and Sarasota.

Tampa Bay’s population has grown more than 21 percent in the past 10 years, adding more than 50,000 new residents per year. It is projected to grow an additional six percent by 2016 to more than 4.5 million people. (Source: Tampa Bay Partnership)

The Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Council, describes the region as having a cost of living well below the national average, a mild seasonal climate, and a robust assortment of cultural and recreational amenities. The region includes world-class health care, a strong education system, and diverse neighborhoods and communities. Thousands of acres of parks and trails, lakes, and beaches offer ample opportunities for year-round outdoor activities. In addition, four professional sports teams, award-winning museums and attractions, and top entertainment venues, and an annual roster of festivals and events add to the character, charm and attractiveness of the region.

The ProjectThe Tampa Bay study area focused on the overall region rather than one smaller defined geographic area. In an effort to determine whether Tampa Bay is a healthy community, the ONE BAY: Healthy Communities coalition of public and private stakeholders collected data for 60 indicators of health for each of the eight counties and the Tampa Bay region.

Analysis of health, economic and social indicators revealed that Tampa Bay is an average community as far as health is concerned. It is neither a shining example to be emulated by other communities, nor a region so plagued by disease and unhealthy behavior that it impacts economic growth. As we know, the natural and built environment can influence the health of a community. As communities understand and confront the impact of their growth and development patterns on residents’ health, the land use planning process offers a unique opportunity to bring together diverse partners and advance strategies to improve community health. Data obtained from the HealthyTampaBay.com website shows that:

Commuting and vehicle miles travelled per day within the Tampa Bay region is on par with other locales, yet transit ridership is low. Deaths from motor vehicles in the region were high with 13 deaths per 100,000 in 2012 compared to the Healthy People 2020 target of 12.4.Pedestrian-related deaths in the region were 2.6 per 100,000 in 2011 compared to the Healthy People 2020 target of 1.3 per 100,000.The number of grocery stores per capita in Tampa Bay is slightly less than the national average but residents generally have access to healthy foods.

ULI Tampa Bay » Eight-County Region » Workshop: March 27, 2014

Tampa Bay: Thriving Cross-Sector Partnerships

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The region’s crime rate of 410.8 violent crimes per 100,000 residents has declined from 571.8 in 2009. The presence of community violence influences where people live, work, shop, and learn. Violence jeopardizes health and safety by causing injuries, death, and emotional trauma.

Workshop panelists brought an understanding of the relationship between community vitality and health, highlighting strategies to address the intersection.

Mark House of The BECK Group emphasized job creation and productivity of employees as a result of building more sustainable office environments. He also cited the return on investment to businesses and the need for individuals to demonstrate leadership through their actions.

Leroy Moore, Tampa Housing Authority, focused on the recent Encore development in Downtown Tampa as an example of a new significant development project for the city. The development, a 40-acre mixed use/mixed income neighborhood, encompasses nearly all aspects of a healthy community including building to LEED Gold standards, including green spaces to encourage social interactions through dog parks and urban farms, and ensures use of the property for public events such as the Criterion bike race and food truck rallies.

Megan Jourdan with the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County emphasized the long-term policy and system changes needed to affect health outcomes such as obesity. The Department stepped forward to work with the local planning department, county officials, and local communities to pass and begin implementing a Complete Streets policy in the county.

Cathy Valdes from Hillsborough County Public Schools spoke about the school system’s efforts to increasing safety through walking school bus programs, joint-use agreements for increased access to the school’s resources such as playgrounds and gyms, and internal efforts to improve the health and wellness of employees. The District is actively working towards ensuring that every neighborhood has a quality school.

John Villenueve with Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority emphasized the agency’s responsibility to provide mobility, economic development, and sustainability. The public transit agency provided more than 14.5 million passenger trips in 2013. This November 2014, the agency is seeking voter approval of the Greenlight Pinellas Plan, a comprehensive, countywide proposal to implement the most efficient and economically viable transit service possible.

Rev. Curt McKay of the Abundant Life Church in Sulphur Springs has led the development of an alliance of community pastors leveraging faith-based resources to utilize church properties for community gardens and programming for community members. They are also focused on job creation in the community so that those without a driver’s license can walk to jobs.

While each panelist represents a different industry, their ultimate desire is to use their authority and leverage their resources to benefit the residents of the Tampa Bay region. Yet, not too surprisingly, there is great synergy amongst the groups represented, and great examples of public-private partnerships.

The Results

Policy

Policy aspects are long-term in nature and require a concentrated effort of advocates to effect sustained change. In the examples shared, it is clear that cross-sector partnerships and local engagement are crucial to advancing health-oriented policies.

“ULI is comprised of people that plan communities, design communities, develop communities, oversee communities, finance communities, so we are right there at the front lines in changing the direction of all these activities and how they take place.” James MooreSenior Vice PresidentHDR, Inc.

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The State Public Health Dept. spearheaded a Complete Streets policy in Manatee County.A November 2014 transit referendum, Greenlight Pinellas, is underway in Pinellas County for expanded bus service and the region’s first light rail line.Hillsborough County schools have initiated joint-use agreements for use of their schools and playgrounds by the community; Churches in Sulpher Springs are using their own property to establish community gardens.Experts cited how taxing unhealthy products can deter the unhealthy choice while providing incentives such as stretching dollars for WIC/SNAP for healthier foods can make the healthy choice easier.Several participants and panelists also encouraged incorporating changes desired into master plans, neighborhood/CRA plans.

Programming

For the region, participants spoke primarily about leadership, engagement and messaging as a means to change perceptions and actions amongst residents.

Leaders in the community, whether highly visible elected officials and business leaders, or neighborhood champions such as parents and church leaders, need to walk the talk and set an example for the changes they want to see. Examples of community engagement included employing residents of a neighborhood in redevelopment efforts; using principals of local schools to reach out to businesses and parents; and using community champions to influence other in the community.Messaging changes or trends varies amongst different people – each person’s perspective is unique and a variety of approaches should be considered.New tools are coming online in the region including new smartphone apps and wayfinding signage to assist residents and visitors in finding a variety of activities and events in the region.As a community, we need to raise a new generation of children who believe and insist that the healthier choice is the key to a longer, happier life. This type of generational shift can powerful, as indicated by the decrease in smoking and increase in recycling in recent years.

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Physical Infrastructure

A great deal of conversation surrounded how physical improvements can have a positive impact on individual and community health including:

Certifications that new and rehab construction are built to new standards that are designed to improve sustainability, reduce energy consumption, increase return on investment, and promote healthier living and working.Clean fleet fuels for transit buses, fleet vehicles, and even personal cars will improve long-term air quality throughout the United States.

Looking AheadULI Tampa Bay is committed to convening and facilitating conversations with the communities and groups interested in furthering the health of the region through the built environment. ULI recognizes that no one group is responsible for this subject, and the issue of health is bigger than any one person or group. Through convening and education, ULI can facilitate sharing experiences to help others achieve more. Stakeholders besides the usual suspects should include “uniformed” members of the community (law enforcement, EMS), chamber groups, and students.

All the District Councils in the state will come together in June at the ULI Florida Summit to recap what we learned and identify the common themes that emerged in Florida. Together, we can learn from each other, but more importantly, advocate for each other…for the health and happiness of our residents and visitors.

Local Workshop Sponsors

» Florida Blue » Florida Hospital Carrollwood » USF Health at CAMLS

Photo Credit: Tampa Downtown Partnership

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The following concepts, plans and terminology were used in each of the workshop sessions and referred to throughout the report. Below is a brief index and definition for reference:

Active Design GuidelinesActive Design Guidelines provide architects and urban designers with strategies for creating healthier buildings, streets, and urban spaces, based on the latest academic research and best practices in the field. (Source: Center for Active Design)

BrownfieldsBrownfields are real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. Cleaning up and reinvesting in these properties protects the environment, reduces blight, and takes development pressures off greenspaces and working lands. (Source: Environmental Protection Agency)

Comprehensive Plan The plan dictates public policy in terms of transportation, utilities, land use, recreation, and housing. Comprehensive plans typically encompass large geographical areas, a broad range of topics, and cover a long-term time horizon.

Community PolicingCommunity policing is a philosophy that promotes organizational strategies that support the systematic use of partnerships and problem-solving techniques, to proactively address the immediate conditions that give rise to public safety issues such as crime, social disorder, and fear of crime. (Source: Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS): U.S. Department of Justice)

Community Redevelopment Area (CRA)The “Community Redevelopment Act of 1969” established by the Florida Legislature enables community redevelopment agencies throughout Florida to acquire property in redevelopment areas and dispose of it to private entities for redevelopment. In addition, the Act provides for the establishment of a redevelopment trust fund which if established allows for the capture of the increased property tax increments above the levels found at the inception of the adoption of a redevelopment plan.

Complete StreetsComplete Streets policies ensure that transportation planners and engineers consistently design and operate the entire roadway with all users in mind – including bicyclists, public transportation vehicles and riders, and pedestrians of all ages and abilities. (Source: Smart Growth America)

Form-Based Code A form-based code is a land development regulation that fosters predictable built results and a high-quality public realm by using physical form (rather than separation of uses) as the organizing principle for the code. A form-based code is a regulation, not a mere guideline, adopted into city, town, or county law. A form-based code offers a powerful alternative to conventional zoning regulation. (Source: Form Based Codes Institute)

Appendix A: Terminology

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Health Impact AssessmentsHealth Impact Assessments are a systematic process that uses an array of data sources and analytic methods, and considers input from stakeholders to determine the potential effects of a proposed policy, plan, program, or project on the health of a population and the distribution of those effects within the population. (Source: The National Research Council)

Healthy People 2020Healthy People provides science-based, 10-year national objectives for improving the health of all Americans. For three decades, Healthy People has established benchmarks and monitored progress over time in order to encourage collaborations across communities and sectors, empower individuals toward making informed health decisions, and measure the impact of prevention activities. (Source: HealthyPeople.Gov)

Joint-Use AgreementsJUAs are formal agreements between two separate government entities – often a school and a city or county – setting forth terms and conditions for shared use of public property or facilities. (Source: ChangeLab Solutions)

Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED)LEED is a green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices. (Source: U.S. Green Building Council)

Pedestrian Priority ZonesPedestrian zones are areas of a city or town reserved for pedestrian-only use and in which some or all automobile traffic may be prohibited. They are instituted by communities who feel that it is desirable to have pedestrian-only areas. (Source: Wikipedia)

Walking School BusesA walking school bus is a group of children walking to school with one or more adults. (Source: National Center for Safe Routes to School)

WayfindingWayfinding has been used in the context of architecture to refer to the user experience of orientation and choosing a path within the built environment. It can also refer to the set of architectural or design elements that aid orientation, as well as in reference to parking management strategies that help drivers find parking garages. (Source: Wikipedia)

ULI Central Florida | centralflorida.uli.org District Council Chair: Cecelia Bonifay, Akerman, LLPBuilding Healthy Places Chair: Diane Trees, Ed.D, University of Central Florida ULI North Florida | northflorida.uli.orgDistrict Council Chair: Margaret Jennesse, Greenpointe HomesBuilding Healthy Places Chairs: Rob Palmer, RS&H and Brenna Durden, Lewis, Longman & Walker ULI Southeast Florida/Caribbean | seflorida.uli.orgDistrict Council Chair: Mark PetersonBuilding Healthy Places Chair: Brian Lomel, TLC Engineering for Architecture ULI Southwest Florida | swflorida.uli.orgDistrict Council Chair: Tim Byal, Miromar Development CorporationBuilding Healthy Places Chair: Kathleen O. Berkey, AICP, Attorney and Certified Land Planner, Pavese Law Firm ULI Tampa Bay | tampabay.uli.orgDistrict Council Chair: Scott Steady, Burr & Forman, PABuilding Healthy Places Chair: James A. Moore, HDR, Inc.

ULI Florida Staff

Eralda Agolli, ULI Southeast Florida/Caribbean Carolyn Clark, ULI North Florida Carla Coleman, ULI Southeast Florida/CaribbeanSusan Jezek, ULI Tampa Bay and Central FloridaShelley Lauten, ULI Central FloridaJulie Medley, ULI Southeast Florida/CaribbeanAnn Seurer, ULI Southwest FloridaAndrea Smith, ULI Central FloridaJenna Wylie, ULI Tampa Bay

Author

Elisa N. DeGregorio

Special Thanks To:

Key Leadership & Acknowledgments

ULI Central Florida | centralflorida.uli.org ULI North Florida | northflorida.uli.orgULI Southeast Florida/Caribbean | seflorida.uli.orgULI Southwest Florida | swflorida.uli.orgULI Tampa Bay | tampabay.uli.org