Dr. Lawrence Frank will explore the intersection of urban design, transportation, and public health, drawing from his pioneering research over the past 35 years at Georgia Tech, the University of British Columbia, and the University of California San Diego.  Dr. Frank developed and has overseen the application of health-based evidence to transportation and land use decision making over the past 1/3 of a century through Urban Design 4 Health, Inc. (UD4H). Dr. Frank pioneered walkability related research in the mid 90’s and is a leader in quantifying how land use and transportation impact health, air quality, and climate resilience.  Dr. Frank and his team develop data-driven tools such as the National Public Health Assessment Model (N-PHAM) used in over a dozen regions of the USA.  This simulation tool is built on highly detailed spatial data and predicts contrasting health impacts of alternative land use and transportation investment scenarios.  This tool supports policymakers, planners, and health professionals document health and economic benefits of more walkable, equitable, and sustainable communities. This lecture will provide key insights into evidence-based urban planning strategies, the latest research on built environments and well-being, and practical applications for shaping healthier cities.   Some objectives of the lecture include:

Analyzing the Impact of Urban Design on Public Health – Participants will learn how land use, transportation, and walkability influence air quality, physical activity, and overall well-being, using evidence-based research and real-world case studies;

Apply Data-Driven Strategies for Healthier Cities – Participants will learn how to leverage urban planning tools and policies, such as those developed by Urban Design 4 Health, Inc., to create more walkable, sustainable, and health-supportive communities;

Evaluate the Role of Transportation Policies in Promoting Active Living – Participants will explore how different transportation and land-use policies impact physical activity, social equity, and environmental sustainability in urban settings; and

Integrate Climate and Health Considerations into Urban Planning – Participants will gain practical knowledge on how to design cities that mitigate climate change effects while enhancing public health through walkability, green spaces, and sustainable infrastructure.