Prevention Matters

An influential East Tennessee doctor suggests that, while his state is successful in getting federal transportation funds, it fails to address transportation challenges in a comprehensive way that address health-related concerns.

"The right kind of streets allow kids to burn those calories by bicycle, foot or skateboard to school, recreation, social engagements and the like," Dr. Anthony DeLucia, a member of the faculty at East Tennessee State University and former chairman of the American Lung Association, wrote in an op-ed published in the Johnson City Herald. "For our growing senior population, some of whom cannot drive, a complete street and sidewalk system with amenities like crosswalks, raised medians, trees, fountains and benches is a thing of beauty and utility."

"Instead, we have provided an illusory and one-dimensional economic stimulus," he writes. "In transportation policy, 'my way or the highway' literally means 'my way is the highway.' We need a fresh look at policy, funding and accountability that addresses the challenges of local metropolitan planning organizations, state departments of transportation and the Federal Highway Administration."