City of Ramsey Threshold

The city of Ramsey, Minnesota, in collaboration with Design for Health and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, conducted an HIA on the potential health effects of the city’s comprehensive plan update to identify what progress has been made on key health indicators and opportunities for further improvement. The HIA found that Ramsey provides a relatively healthy environment but that continued planning and implementation are necessary to address accessibility, protection of surface waters, access to healthy foods, and the promotion and support of physical activity. The HIA made several recommendations, including adding a local stop on the Northstar Commuter Rail Line to improve accessibility; identifying and reserving locations suitable for grocery store development to improve access to fresh fruits and vegetables for at least 50 percent of city residences; and implementing the Master Trail Plan to provide parks and trails for at least half of all residents.