Cities Exploring '15-Minute Neighborhoods' for Health, Sustainability

The "15-minute city" concept encourages locating services in neighborhoods within a 15-minute walk, bike ride, or public transit trip. It promotes sustainability, proximity, community connections, and civic participation.

Many US cities are designed for cars, with average trips of 7-9 miles. Only 12% of daily needs are within a short walk/bike range. Cities like Portland and Detroit are working to improve neighborhood access.

Bringing services closer reduces driving, pollution, and isolation, while encouraging walking and biking. Cedar Rapids links it to climate action and community resilience after major flooding and storm disasters.

Walking just 30 minutes a day provides health benefits like lower blood pressure, anxiety, and risk of diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. Cleveland focuses on helping seniors age in their neighborhoods.

Some critics worry the concept restricts mobility and mixing between neighborhoods. But supporters see shift toward sustainable, livable communities for future generations.