Description
This project examines the role of food environment planning in creating communities that facilitate healthy eating, and that contribute positively to the environment, the economy, the health of residents, and the ability of future generations to thrive. The literature review analyzes the effect of having disproportionate amounts of unhealthy food destinations, as residents are left with fewer opportunities to maintain a healthy diet through the outlets that exist in their neighborhoods. Living under these circumstances, it is not surprising to find some populations, such as lower-income and minority communities, having higher incidences of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, as these diseases are associated with unhealthy diets. The main purpose of this project is to create a Food Environment Master Plan for Encanto Neighborhoods, a low-income, high-minority community within the City of San Diego. The Master Plan, located in the Appendix, is meant to guide and shape land uses in such a way as to enhance the health and quality of life in the community, by identifying opportunities to expand the food choices of residents, thus ensuring that food is more healthful, affordable, and accessible. To achieve this, the project analyzes the existing conditions in Encanto Neighborhoods, describes the location and type of land uses that could improve the food environment, and identifies potential funding sources. The project provides guidance for decision-makers by showing land development improvements that could have an impact on the health and economic prosperity of the community. Recommendations are made to enhance retail and food enterprise opportunities — building the workforce, and increasing access to healthy food. Various food environment tools are provided for realizing the vision of Encanto Neighborhoods as a vibrant and economically thriving community that supports healthy eating and living.
