Active Transportation
Walkability
Being physically active is one of the most important steps Tennesseans of all ages can take to improve their health. The Tennessee Department of Health promotes walking and walkable communities to get our residents walking and wheelchair rolling to increase their physical activity. Walking helps to prevent and reduce the risk of chronic diseases and premature death. Walking supports positive mental health and healthy aging as well.
Bikeability
A bikeable connection provides a safe and efficient route for bikers, young and old, experienced and novice, to go about their daily activities and explore their community. Connecting the areas where people live, work and play with options for active transportation is a key strategy for increasing opportunities for physical activity. Increasing the “bikeability” of a route is one example of a built environment factor which can impact the health of Tennesseans.
Transit
Transit is shared passenger transport available to the general public. Sometimes it may be called public transportation or mass transit. Transit includes passenger buses, vans, trolleys, trains, subways and ferries. Transit operations can be public or private. Mass transit is generally more energy efficient than other forms of travel. When people walk, bike or roll to transit stations or stops, they benefit from increased physical activity.
Multimodal Transportation
Multimodal transportation includes walking, biking, transit, rail, cars and trucks. Multimodal transportation is the movement of people and goods on roadways, including but not limited to, motorists, transit-riders, freight-carriers bicyclists and pedestrians, including those with disabilities. Providing for transit-riders, pedestrians and bicyclists in transportation projects can improve the mobility, access and safety of all users at the local, regional and statewide levels, and develop a comprehensive, integrated and connected multimodal transportation network.