Omaha's Concrete Jungle: Is Walkability Shortening Lifespans?
By Franklin Everett ShawOmaha, Nebraska: A City Stranded in its Cars?
Omaha, a city known for its friendly Midwestern charm and Warren Buffett, harbors a hidden health crisis lurking beneath its surface. It’s a crisis fueled by concrete, asphalt, and a deep-seated reliance on the automobile. Omaha’s low walkability score isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a potential threat to the well-being of its residents.
The city’s sprawling layout, designed primarily for cars, actively discourages walking and cycling. This car-dependent infrastructure contributes directly to sedentary lifestyles. Sedentary lifestyles, in turn, are linked to a host of health problems, including obesity, heart disease, and reduced life expectancy.
Let’s look at the numbers. Omaha’s Walk Score, a measure of how easy it is to live a car-free lifestyle, hovers around a dismal 45. This means most errands require a car. Compare this to cities like New York (88) or San Francisco (84), and the disparity is stark.
The consequences are tangible. According to the Douglas County Health Department, obesity rates in Omaha are significantly higher than the national average. Heart disease remains a leading cause of death in the city. While correlation doesn’t equal causation, the link between car dependence, inactivity, and these health outcomes is undeniable.
Consider the daily life of a typical Omahan living in a suburban neighborhood like Elkhorn. To get groceries, they must drive. To take their kids to school, they drive. Even to visit a nearby park, they often drive.
This constant reliance on cars eliminates opportunities for incidental exercise. Walking to the store, biking to work, or simply strolling through the neighborhood become luxuries, not necessities. The result is a population that spends too much time sitting and not enough time moving.
But what can Omahans do? The problem seems systemic, ingrained in the city’s very fabric. The answer lies in a multi-pronged approach, combining individual action with collective advocacy.
First, individuals can consciously incorporate more walking into their daily routines. Park further away from your destination and walk the extra blocks. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Use your lunch break for a brisk walk around the block.
These small changes can add up over time. Invest in a pedometer or fitness tracker to monitor your daily steps. Aim for at least 7,000 steps per day.
Second, Omahans can advocate for improved pedestrian infrastructure. Attend city council meetings and voice your concerns about the lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes. Support local organizations that are working to make Omaha more walkable and bikeable.
Specifically, push for the completion of the Keystone Trail extension. This project would connect several neighborhoods and provide a safe, scenic route for walking and cycling. Demand better lighting and safer crosswalks on Dodge Street, a major thoroughfare that is notoriously dangerous for pedestrians.
Third, support local businesses that are located in walkable neighborhoods. By patronizing these businesses, you are sending a message to developers and city planners that walkability is important. Consider moving to a more walkable neighborhood, such as Dundee or Benson, if possible.
These neighborhoods offer a mix of residential and commercial properties, making it easier to run errands and socialize without relying on a car. They also tend to have a stronger sense of community.
One common pitfall is the “all or nothing” mentality. People often feel overwhelmed by the scale of the problem and give up before they even start. Remember, even small changes can make a difference.
Another challenge is the perception that walking is unsafe. Omaha’s streets can be dangerous for pedestrians, especially at night. Advocate for better street lighting and safer crosswalks.
Don’t underestimate the power of collective action. Organize walking groups in your neighborhood. Encourage your friends and family to join you on walks. The more people who are out walking, the safer and more enjoyable it will be for everyone.
Omaha’s car dependence is a complex problem with no easy solutions. However, by taking individual action and advocating for systemic change, Omahans can create a healthier, more walkable city for themselves and future generations. It’s time to reclaim our streets and prioritize the health and well-being of our community over the convenience of the automobile. The future of Omaha’s health may depend on it.