East Bay Greenway

The HIA addressed a proposed plan for twelve miles of pedestrian and biking trails under the elevated Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) tracks from East Oakland to Hayward, known as the East Bay Greenway. Some of the influences on health that were considered include, the opportunity for increased physical activity, the greening of the landscape, reduced motor vehicle use, increased social cohesion and safety—the main barrier to use of the Greenway. The health outcomes associated with these factors include, chronic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity; improved mental health; and the risk of violence and injury. The HIA recommended ways in which the likelihood of positive health outcomes can be increased through optimal design and programming. It also made recommendations to ensure safety from accidents with motor vehicles, such as ways to improve the intersections of the Greenway with roadways; and safety from crime, such as the creation of a citizen group to patrol the trail.