Right to a Sidewalk: Planning and Power
Created by Lily Apostolopoulos
PUP501: Planning, History, and Theory
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Background
In the 19th to 20th century sidewalks have symbolized who is overlooked and being invested in. In Phoenix historical patterns of redlining and unequal access to public infrastructure are shown through sidewalk networks. In South Phoenix, neighborhoods have long had underesourced areas where there are a lack of sidewalks and unsafe conditions leaving vulnerable populations like low income residents at risk. While North Phoenix neighborhoods have safer street design, shade, and well maintained walkable areas.
A Split in Sidewalk Investment
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Images from Google Maps
Heat Exposure & Sidewalk Inequality


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-Children and young adults
- People of color
- Low income residents
- Transit users
Who is affected?

Red- High Heat Exposure Areas
Orange- Medium Exposure
Green- Low Heat Exposure
Yellow - No sidewalks
White - Route that children take to school
Image Credit: https://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/heat-one-arizona-county-played-role-645-deaths-last-year-rcna143274
Neighborhoods that face sidewalk inequality face environmental injustice
Images created from ArchGIS
Inclusive Design
Redesign of Southern and Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ
- Inclusive sidewalks develop pedestrian environments that are safe, accessible, and improve liveability
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- Redesigning frequently used sidewalks provides new mobility for children and disabled individuals to safely commute
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- Reflection of the community

Image created in SketchUp and Canva