This chapter of the Online TDM Encyclopedia describes the concept of livability and ways that TDM strategies impact it. Livability refers to the environmental and social quality of an area as perceived by residents, employees, customers and visitors. Livability is affected by a community’s public safety, environmental quality, community cohesion, friendliness, aesthetics, accessibility, pride and opportunity. Many TDM strategies can help achieve livability objectives.
Introduction
Community Livability refers to the environmental and social quality of an area as perceived by residents, employees, customers and visitors. This includes safety and health (traffic safety, personal security, public health), local environmental conditions (cleanliness, noise, dust, air quality, water quality), the quality of social interactions (neighborliness, fairness, respect, community identity and pride), opportunities for recreation and entertainment, aesthetics, and existence of unique cultural and environmental resources (e.g., historic structures, mature trees, traditional architectural styles).
Community livability directly benefits people who live in, work in or visit an area, increases property values and business activity, and it can improve public health and safety. Livability is largely affected by conditions in the public realm, places where people naturally interact with each other and their community, including streets, parks, transportation terminals and other public facilities, and so is affected by public policy and planning decisions.
Source: Online TDM Encyclopedia
Published: June 7, 2004
