An easy way to boost public health
Oklahoma City has spent the past several years reinventing itself and solving community problems. The breathtaking pace of progress has generated an enormous amount of civic pride.
We still have work to do, though. One of the most important ways to create a thriving city is to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle and improve overall health.
My 35-year running career includes more than 50 marathons and 500 other races.
My job involves encouraging people, including world record holders, to set and achieve their goals. I enjoy that work. But I also want people to know they don’t have to run hundreds of miles a week to improve their bodies. Staying healthy can mean taking a stroll in the evening, riding a bike on the weekend or walking to a bus stop to get to work.
Many people want to make the small changes that make a big difference in staying strong and healthy. We all know the damage a sedentary lifestyle causes: Oklahoma ranks at the back of the pack among states when it comes to chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
That said, we’re progressing where motion and wellness are concerned, as I witness increased population (and more and more children, starting quite young) participating in running events and leading physically active lives. These habits lead to “way of life,” so the momentum has started.
We need to come together as a city to make it easier for everyone, regardless of age, physical ability or socioeconomic status to safely get around any way they choose.
That’s why I was so glad last year when Oklahoma City voters approved ballot measures to devote general obligation bond funds to better, safer streets and sidewalks, increasing opportunities for physical activity and creating healthier neighborhoods across our city.
Another fantastic step was when the Oklahoma City Planning Commission approved a resolution to signal the city’s intent to follow Livable Streets principles in the long-term PlanOKC. I’m rooting for the Oklahoma City Council to go the extra mile and approve the resolution, too.
Livable Streets is a transportation policy ensuring streets are designed and maintained to enable safe, convenient and comfortable travel and access for users of all ages and abilities, regardless of their mode of transportation. Simple improvements such as accessible and convenient sidewalks, better lighting and protected bike lanes make a huge difference for adults and children alike.
Livable Streets encourages everyone to be healthier, whether they are taking care of a quick errand, going to school or training for the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon.
The vision is simple: All users of Oklahoma City’s transportation network, including drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, freight carriers, emergency responders, children, senior citizens and people with disabilities deserve an attractive and functional environment for safe, convenient and active travel.
I hope the city council will move this proposal across the finish line.
Bravo is the director of business development at OK Runner. The city council is scheduled to consider a Livable Streets policy on Jan. 16.