Fort McPherson Interim Zoning

The HIA addressed the health effects of zoning provisions on the nearby residents' nutrition, physical activity and social cohesion during the interim-use phase of a major redevelopment and new land use plan for Atlanta's Fort McPherson's Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. The zoning provisions that govern permitted uses of land, green space and transportation were analyzed to gauge their effect on nutrition, physical activity, alcohol consumption, tobacco use and social connections. Potential changes in these factors—which are known to influence health—were considered and predictions about the risk of health outcomes, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, mental health and cancer, were put forth. The HIA recommended allowing community gardens in green space and areas within ¼ mile of schools, senior housing, transit stations and adjacent neighborhoods; allowing use of selected, accessible, existing buildings for community meetings; and limiting fast food restaurants or prohibiting their development near areas where children congregate.