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HomeMy WebLinkAbout08/20/2012 Council Work Session August 20, 2012 4:20 p.m. Council Chambers Roll Call. Approval of Agenda, as proposed or amended. 1. Discussion of Blue Zone Project—Submitted by Suzy Schares, City Clerk. ADJOURNMENT Suzy Schares City Clerk Blue Zones Project to Improve Well-Being and Economic Vitality Waterloo City Council Resolution # Approved by the City Council on (date) Effective date: Aug. 27, 2012 WHEREAS, improving the overall well-being of the citizens of the city will improve productivity, lower healthcare costs, and improve the economy; and WHEREAS, our Waterloo currently has scored a 67 in the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index and ranks 73rd out of 99 Iowa counties in the national County Health Rankings for overall Health Outcomes and employers cite "presenteeism" as a significant productivity concern with employees showing up to work without the ability to focus at 100%; and the rate of obesity and related chronic disease healthcare costs have increased dramatically (directly measured BMI data showing the percent of Waterloo K-12 students at or above the 85th percentile for being overweight or obese increased from 35%to 45% over a 10 year period as of November, 2011. and WHEREAS, there are known geographic regions around the world where people live longer and "better" and these communities have nine commonalities: 1. Move Naturally 2. Know Your Purpose 3. Down Shift 4. 80% Rule 5. Plant Slant 6. Wine @ 5 7. Right Tribe 8. Community 9. Loved Ones First NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the city of Waterloo will seek to understand our level of well-being and improve upon those things at which those in Blue Zones® areas excel, so that we will improve our well-being, productivity, and economic vitality. Through appropriate policies and built environment changes and by May of 2013, we will formally consider adoption of the following items as outlined in the Blue Zones® Community Policy Pledge to achieve certification as a Blue Zones Community': o Policies (Complete Streets): ©2012 Healthways Inc.All rights reserved.Contains copyrighted material of Healthways,Inc.and Blue Zones,LLC. ■ Pass a city resolution or ordinance to adopt Complete Streets principles ■ Pass a city resolution or ordinance to adopt Complete Streets principles, and officials in charge of design have received training in how to design Complete Streets o Policies (Tobacco): ■ Comprehensive smoke-free policy for all indoor and outdoor workplaces and public places o Policies (Nutrition and Physical Activity): ■ A Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan ■ Adopt policies to promote outdoor dining ■ Joint use of facilities agreements ■ Healthy vending standards ■ Access to fresh water drinking fountains ■ Zoning to allow sites for community gardens and farmers markets ■ Incentives for food retailers in underserved areas ■ Establish a healthy food and beverage policy at youth sporting events sponsored by Leisure Services ■ Provide space and time for breastfeeding o Environmental Changes: ■ Bicycle Lanes installed and maintained ■ Safe Routes to Schools project implemented ■ Complete Streets project implemented ■ Implement permanent strategies to enhance personal safety in areas where people are or could be physically active ■ Establish community gardens ©2012 Healthways Inc.All rights reserved.Contains copyrighted material of Healthways,Inc.and Blue Zones,LLC. a. 1;& hs -y `ga v e �'3 "$ , t-`.s: c.. \li�'� BLUE ZONES PROJECT' by HFALTHWAYS Sponsored by Welimark.00 BLUE ZONES® WHAT IS THE The world we create for ourselves has an BLUE ZONES PROJECT? impact on our everyday lives—whether we're aware of it or not. Where we choose Across the globe lie Blue Zones®areas, where people reach age to live, work, play, and even the community 100 at an astonishing rate. Citizens of places like Sardinia, Italy; of people with whom we spend our time, Okinawa, Japan; and Loma Linda, California, have maintained all influence the lifestyle choices we make. their healthy lifestyles for generations. What if you had the opportunity to The Blue Zones Project1M aims to adopt the lifestyle principles intentionally create a healthy city where the of these areas to transform American cities and towns into healthiest choices are also the easiest ones Blue Zones CommunitiesTM, where people can "live longer, to make? Imagine a place where it's easy to better" lives. eat fresh produce from grocery stores and Our town is trying to become a Blue Zones CommunityTM farmers markets, not only because they're Achieving that goal requires six community sectors to pledge more affordable, but also because they're and then act on their specific responsibilities. If each sector more accessible than fast food restaurants. does its part, then we will all share the benefits of living in Here it's easier to bike than drive, thanks to a community where well-being is a way of life. better bike lanes providing safe and direct Becoming a Blue Zones Community requires: access to work, shopping centers, and parks, all without the hassle of public parking. At least 20% of citizens sign the Personal Pledge and This community, designed for health and complete one action. well-being, would also make it easier for At least 25% of public schools become a Blue Zones our kids to play outside, with safe school SchoollM playgrounds made available to the public At least 50% of the top 20 community-identified during non school hours. employers become a Blue Zones WorksiteTM This is a city built for active living. It's an At least 25% of independently or locally owned environment where city governments can restaurants become a Blue Zones RestaurantTM. support the health and vitality of citizens At least 25% of grocery stores become a Blue Zones by carrying out policies that provide people Grocery StoreTM' with healthy opportunities, giving them a supportive nudge toward eating better and Completion of the Blue Zones® Community Policy Pledge. moving more naturally. Can such a community exist? Yes! (( ) BLUE ZONES PROJECT' �i by HFALiHWAYS Sponsored by Wellmark.OW, BLUE ZONES COMMUNITY POLICY PLEDGE The Blue Zones Community Policy Pledge enables community leaders to promote these healthy lifestyle principles, creating a healthier environment for citizens to live, work, play, and thrive. Based on reviewed literature,the Blue Zones Project has identified policies that city governments can realistically implement to better support the health and well-being of its citizens.The policies recommended are a compilation of evidence-or theory-based policy recommendations published by the following sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Institute of Medicine White House Task Force on Obesity National Prevention Council Robert Wood Johnson Foundation While we tried to choose policies that are directly under the control of city government,we realize the legal landscape is different in every community.Therefore,we recognize that some cities may not have jurisdiction over all policies recommended.The list is intended to be a menu from which communities can choose the policies that make sense for their unique environments. It is up to your town to determine what is feasible. ALIGN YOUR COMMUNITY POLICIES TO HELP BECOME A BLUE ZONES COMMUNITY Communities that meet certification criteria outlined below will earn recognition as a Blue Zones Community. Blue Zones certification recognizes communities that are in the top quintile for having adopted and implemented best practices. By taking the Blue Zones Community Policy Pledge, you're demonstrating your commitment to creating an environment of well-being for the people of your community, as well as your intentions to strive toward certification as a Blue Zones Community. committed to providing the best possible environment for students to learn and grow. BENEFITS FOR BLUE ZONES COMMUNITIES Recognition for helping your community reach Blue Zones Community certification Makes your community a more attractive destination for businesses and individuals l 1] BLUE ZONES PROJECT' \�•i/� by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by Wellmark. u CERTIFICATION CRITERIA Complete the following criteria to fulfill the policy and build environment requirements for becoming a Blue Zones Community: Earn at least 40% of the total points (13 points or more of 31 possible points) by adopting and enforcing Pledge actions. Implement at least one Pledge action from each category (Complete Streets, Tobacco Policy, and Healthy Eating and Active Living). Implement at least two changes to the built environment that permanently change the environment to nudge people into healthier behaviors. INSTRUCTIONS 1. Register on the Blue Zones Project website (www.bluezonesproject.com)to begin the certification process. 2. Complete the Blue Zones Community Policy assessment by reviewing each item and checking those that your community is currently doing. 3. By registering and completing the assessment: I agree to ensure formal consideration for adoption of the actions as outlined in the Blue Zones Community Policy Pledge to achieve Blue Zones Community Certification. I agree to display a banner stating my participation in the Blue Zones Project. I agree to allow Healthways and Blue Zones to use the name of our community in their promotion of the Blue Zones Project. I agree to secure community buildings as meeting places for hosting Blue Zones Project events. 4. Select items you would like to implement in your community. See the supporting materials under "Tips, Tools and Resources" to help you get started. 5. Update your information online as you make progress. 6. Celebrate your achievements! #e & 5r� -c .gees 5}u s ^ a x 4 dirt '' •rvF a '"� .s .3v .=.3sskRn• 11 )t BLUE ZONES PROJECT by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by Welimark,REM2 BLUE ZONES COMMUNITY POLICY PLEDGE ACTIONS CURRENTLY POINTS WILL DO COMPLETE STREETS POLICY Implement at least one option in this section. DOING 1. Pass a city resolution or ordinance to adopt Complete Streets principles. Resolution or ordinance must include all 10 elements of a comprehensive ,- Complete Streets Policy as defined by the National Complete Streets Coalition. 2. Staff in charge of design receive training in how to design complete streets. (You must pass a city resolution to adopt Complete Streets principles. Resolution or ordinance must include all 10 elements of a comprehensive Complete Streets Policy as defined by the National Complete Streets Coalition). TOTAL POINTS COMPLETE STREETS POLICY: CURRENTLY POINTS WILL DO TOBACCO POLICY Implement at least one option in this section. DOING 1. Comprehensive smoke-free policy in all indoor workplaces and public places and Adopt a policy to address smoke-free multi-unit housing. 2. Comprehensive smoke-free policy in all indoor workplaces and public places and Comprehensive smoke-free policy in all outdoor workplaces and public places. TOTAL POINTS TOBACCO POLICY: CURRENTLY POINTS WILL DO HEALTHY EATING AND ACTIVE LIVING POLICY DOING Implement as many of the following options as possible in this section. 1. Adopt a Bicycle Master Plan that includes plans for accountability, implementation, and evaluation. 2. Adopt a Pedestrian Master Plan that includes plans for accountability, implementation, and evaluation. 3. Update zoning and building codes to encourage mixed-use development. 4. Adopt Form-Based Codes for the community or a sub-area of the community. 5. Adopt policies to promote outdoor dining. U 6. Create a policy that facilitates joint use of facilities agreements (such as model joint use agreements). 7. Adopt building codes requiring showers, changing facilities, and bike racks in municipal buildings. 8. Adopt healthy vending standards in municipal buildings and public parks. 9. Create pricing incentives to increase affordability of healthier foods. �l 1 BLUE ZONES PROJECT' - by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by Welimark.e V CURRENTLY POINTS WILL DO HEALTHY EATING AND ACTIVE LIVING POLICY, continued DOING 10. Increase access to fresh water drinking fountains. 11. Restrict mobile vending of unhealthy foods near schools & public playgrounds. 12. Create policies to increase Healthy Mobile Markets. 13. Establish zoning to limit density and location of fast food establishments. 14. Prohibit establishment of new fast food drive-thrus. 15. Establish land use protections for community gardens and farmers markets. 16. Provide incentives to attract supermarkets/grocery stores to underserved neighborhoods. 17. Establish a healthy food and beverage policy at city-sponsored youth sporting events. 18. Adopt a written worksite breastfeeding policy that provides space and time for breastfeeding for city employees. TOTAL POINTS HEALTHY EATING AND ACTIVE LIVING POLICY: POINTS 1. Complete Streets TOTAL 2. Tobacco Policy YOUR POINTS: 3. Healthy Eating and Active Living Total Points* *must be 13 or greater l 1 BLUE ZONES PROJECT' \` by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by WelImark.CM. COMMUNITY POLICY BUILT ENVIRONMENT CHANGES Implement at least two environmental changes that permanently change the environment to nudge people into healthier behaviors. Click on each action to learn more about what it is and tips for how to get started implementing it. Complete at least one project from the Bicycle Master Plan. Please Describe: Complete at least one project from the Pedestrian Master Plan. Please Describe: Implement a Complete Streets project. Please Describe: Implement a Safe Routes to Schools project. Please Describe: ( l BLUE ZONES PROJECT `�.i by HEALTHWAYs Sponsored by Wellmark.ou COMMUNITY POLICY BUILT ENVIRONMENT CHANGES n Implement a permanent strategy to enhance personal safety in areas where people are or could be physically active. Please Describe: Establish new community gardens. Please Describe: Complete at least one new Placemaking project that fulfills the Power of 10 criteria and includes the four key qualities of successful places as defined by Project for Public Spaces. Please Describe: Complete at least one new Urban Greening project. Please Describe: Blue Zones Projects"^,Blue Zones CommunityTm,Blue Zones Worksitefm,Blue Zones SchoolTM,Blue Zones Grocery StoreTM,and Blue Zones RestaurantT""are trademarks of Blue Zones,LLC.All rights reserved. Copyright©2012 Blue Zones,LLC.All rights reserved, Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.Blue Cross'',Blue ShielcP,and the Cross"and Shield''symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association,an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.Wellmark'is a registered mark of Wellmark,Inc.Copyright©2012 Wellmark,Inc. Waterloo Blue Zones Project Currently Doing o Bicycle master plan, 3 points o Policies promoting outdoor dining,1 point o Joint use of facilities agreements, 1 point o Access to fresh water drinking fountains, 1 point o Incentives to grocery stores to locate in underserved neighborhoods, 1 point Here are the policies required to certify and additional policies we thought we heard support for amongst the department heads, some of which will require council approval: Required o Resolution for a Complete Streets policy, 2 points o Staff receive training on designing Complete Streets, 1 point o Comprehensive smoke-free policy in all outdoor workplaces, 3 points City Department Head Support o Adopt healthy vending standards in municipal buildings and public parks, 1 point o Establish healthy food and beverage policy at city-sponsored youth sporting events, 1 point o Adopt a written worksite breastfeeding policy that provides space and time for breastfeeding for city employees, 1 point o Establish land use protections for community gardens, 1 point Points Needed to Certify: 13 Total Current Points: 7 points Required/Supported Total Points: 10 points Projected Total Points: 17 Built Environment List of qualifying projects Highway 63 Shaulis Road Trail Sportsplex Hartman Reserve Expansion Sans Souci Island Safe Routes to schools: at Lincoln, 3 urban water trails Cunningham and Irving '�* 7 .3„ �. � ,y5 k,§ fah # A=E° .. �` ✓.S'mS -' BLUE ZONES PROJECT" ' '- by HEALTH WAYS Sponsored by Wellmark. 000.0 Detailed Descriptions of Blue Zones® Community Policy Built Environment Pledge Actions Built Environment Changes 1. Complete at least one project from the Bicycle Master Plan How to do it:Work with all stakeholders to prioritize a project(or a few projects)from your city's Bicycle Master Plan,and then get to work implementing that project. For more specific information on how to start implementing a Bicycle Master Plan,check out the following resource: Creating a RoadMap for Producing&Implementing a Bicycle Master Plan: http://www.bikewalk.org/pdfs/BMP RoadMap.pdf Why do it? Once your city has adopted a Bicycle Master Plan,the next step is implementing the plan. Having a plan alone is not enough to increase biking and active commuting. Completing projects outlined in the Bicycle Master Plan builds awareness of your city's commitment to creating a safe and accommodating environment for biking, and facilitates realization of the goals outlined in the plan. 2. Complete at least one project from the Pedestrian Master Plan How to do it: Work with all stakeholders to prioritize a project(or a few projects)from your city's Pedestrian Master Plan, and then get to work implementing that project. For more resources to help implement your Pedestrian Master Plan,visit: http://www.walkinginfo.org/index.cfm Why do it? Once your city has adopted a Pedestrian Master Plan,the next step is implementing the plan. A plan alone is not enough to increase walking and active commuting. By completing projects outlined in the Pedestrian Master Plan,you are increasing awareness of your city's commitment to creating a safe environment for walking. 3. Implement a Complete Streets project How to do it: Choose a project(or a few projects)to implement that will help you meet the goals identified in your Complete Streets policy. Example projects include: • Bike lanes,bike trails,sidewalks,street-scaping, curb extensions, mid-block crossings,and other tools are applied to major streets for commuters and recreation. • Striped on-street parking,tree wells,and medians should be added to provide a safe waiting place on major streets.These practices also manage and calm traffic while reducing noise and perceived danger. • Narrow the lanes of main streets, especially those with bike lanes. In this case, bike lanes or paved shoulders also add parking and a sidewalk buffer. • Construction of sidewalks should be initially focused within'A to%mile of town centers and schools. Why do it?Turning policy into practice is not an easy task. Using the Complete Streets framework provides a proven approach and makes the process more likely to be successful. Four key steps to implementation include: 1 1. Restructure procedures to accommodate all users on every project; 2. Develop new design policies and guides; 3. Offer workshops and other training opportunities to planners and engineers; and 4. Institute better ways to measure performance and collect data on how well the streets are serving all users. National Complete Streets Coalition. http://www.completestreets.org/changing-policy/policy-elements/#implementation • a , CI BLUE ZONES PROJECT` by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by Wellmark. 63.9. 4. Implement a Safe Routes to Schools project How to do it:Safe Routes to School programs examine conditions around schools and conduct projects and activities that work to improve safety and accessibility,while reducing traffic and air pollution in the vicinity of schools. Example projects include: • Slowing down traffic around schools • Constructing sidewalks and concrete curb extensions • Educational campaigns • Purchasing LED streetlights,school crossing signs, and flashers Visit the National Safe Routes to School website to find your state's Safe Routes To School contact and other helpful information: http://www.saferoutesinfo.org Why do it:Adults walk for only 21%of trips that are one mile or less,and children walk for only 36%of trips to school in that same distance.2 Children who walk or bike to school have higher daily levels of physical activity and better cardiovascular fitness than children who do not actively commute to school.3 Safe Routes to School programs help make bicycling and walking to school safer and more appealing transportation choices,thus encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle from an early age. 5. Implement a permanent strategy to enhace personal safety in areas where people are or could be physically active How to do it: Identify high crime neighborhoods or neighborhoods with a high percentage of vacant or abandoned buildings where residents are less likely to be physically active. Determine what you can do to improve the safety and appeal of these neighborhoods. Ideas to improve safety include: installing streetlights, building/maintaining sidewalks, projects to reduce or slow traffic(e.g.,speed humps or traffic circles),improve/maintain street crossings, increase police presence,decrease the number of abandoned buildings and homes,clean up graffiti and trash, or plant trees and other greenery. Why do it?Individuals who perceive their neighborhood to be unsafe or live in a neighborhood with high physical disorder are less likely to be physically active or encourage their children's physical activity.4 One strategy for promoting physical activity is to ensure that neighborhoods are safe and appealing, so that residents are comfortable walking, biking,and playing in their neighborhoods. 6. Establish new community gardens How to do it:Visit the American Community Gardening Association(http://communitvgarden.org/index.php)for resources, including how to find community gardens in your area,start-up guides,how-to manuals, evaluation tools and more. Contact other cities that have community garden programs to learn from their experiences. Here are a few cities that have successful municipal community garden programs and their related websites: 2 Active Living Research 2009.Active Transportation: Making the Link from Transportation to Physical activity and Obesity. Research Brief.Summer 2009. s Davison, K. K.,J. L.Werder, and C.T. Lawson. 2008. Children's active commuting to school: Current knowledge and future directions. Preventing Chronic Disease 5(3):A100. 4 Miles R. Neighborhood Disorder, Perceived safety,and readiness to encourage use of local playgrounds.Am J Prey Med 2008;34(4):275-281. (97").-' BLUE ZONES PROJECT- by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by Wel!mark.S ) Sacramento Department of Parks and Recreation http://www.cityofsacramento.org//parksandrecreation/parks/community garden.htm City of Portland Community Garden Program http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/index.cfm?c=39846 Palo Alto,CA Community Garden Program http://www.citvofpaloalto.org/I ivi ng/news/details.asp?News)D=457&Target)D=41 Why do it?Community gardens enhance the health and well-being of members by providing physical,spiritual,and nutritional benefits while providing a sense of worth and involvement.There are many models for community gardens,but in general a community garden is a piece of land gardened by a group of people. Recognizing the benefits of community gardens,several cities have created community garden programs operated by the city.The cities of Hartford (Connecticut), Palo Alto (California), Portland(Oregon),and Sacramento(California) maintain a municipal garden program.5 7. Complete at least one new Placemaking project that fulfills the Power of 10 criteria and includes the four key qualities of successful places as defined by Project for Public Places How to do it:Creating a great public space doesn't need to be expensive or elaborate. However,according to the non-profit Project for Public Spaces,any great space should fulfill the Power of 10,which is the place needs to offer at least 10 things to do or 10 reasons to be there.These could include a place to sit,playgrounds to enjoy,art to touch, music to hear,food to eat, history to experience,and people to meet. In addition,successful public spaces share four common qualities:they are accessible; people are engaged in activities there;the space is comfortable and has a good image;and finally,it is a sociable place:one where people meet each other and take people when they come to visit. For great ideas and examples of successful placemaking projects,visit: The Project for Public Spaces http://www.pps.org Why do it?Research suggests that a high sense of trust and reciprocity among citizens is linked with lower mortality, higher general health status, lower risk of major depression, prevention of crime,and enhanced economic development.6 Create public spaces where people have the opportunity to socialize and enjoy each other.Great public spaces are places where people want to be,celebrations are held,social and economic exchanges take place,friends run into each other,and cultures mix. 8. Complete at least one new Urban Greening project How to do it: Examples of projects include: planting trees,creating/improving local parks,creating open space,establishing community gardens,creating nature trails, planting flowers, landscaping in urban areas,creating orchards,etc. For more information and examples of what other cities are doing to promote green space,see the following website: Project for Public Spaces—See what other cities are doing to create attractive public spaces including green spaces to bring people together and increase well-being and vitality in cities s Public Health Law&Policy. Establishing Land Use Protections for Community Gardens. March 2009. 6 Leyden K.Social capital and the built environment:The importance of walkable neighborhoods.American Journal of Public Health 2003;93(9):1546-1551. • 1( ) BLUE ZONES PROJECT' by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by WelImark. i http://www.pps.org Why do it? The benefits of human exposure to and interaction with nature are well documented.'For example,studies have found that patients with natural views in a healthcare setting require fewer painkillers, have fewer complications,and shorter hospital stays. Exposure to natural views has also been found to reduce stress in the workplace, increase positive attitudes, and have a restorative effect.Social benefits of green spaces include increased community cohesion,as green spaces provide a meeting place for individuals to develop and maintain neighborhood social ties. Blue Zones Project"'is a trademark of Blue Zones,LLC.All rights reserved.Copyright©2012 Blue Zones,LLC.All rights reserved. WelImark Blue Cross and Blue Shield is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.Blue Cross,a Blue Shield,®the Cross®and Shields symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association,an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.WelImark®is a registered mark of WelImark,Inc.©2012 WelImark,Inc. ' Mailer C,Townsend M,Pryor A, Brown P,St Leger L. Healthy nature healthy people:'contact with nature' as an upstream health promotion intervention for populations. Health Promotion International 2006;21(1):45-54. BLUE ZONES PROJECT- by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by Wellmark• voo® Detailed Descriptions of Blue Zones® Community Policy Built Environment Pledge Actions Built Environment Changes 1. Complete at least one project from the Bicycle Master Plan How to do it:Work with all stakeholders to prioritize a project(or a few projects)from your city's Bicycle Master Plan,and then get to work implementing that project. For more specific information on how to start implementing a Bicycle Master Plan, check out the following resource: Creating a RoadMap for Producing& Implementing a Bicycle Master Plan: http://www.bikewalk.org/pdfs/BMP RoadMap.pdf Why do it? Once your city has adopted a Bicycle Master Plan,the next step is implementing the plan. Having a plan alone is not enough to increase biking and active commuting. Completing projects outlined in the Bicycle Master Plan builds awareness of your city's commitment to creating a safe and accommodating environment for biking, and facilitates realization of the goals outlined in the plan. 2. Complete at least one project from the Pedestrian Master Plan How to do it: Work with all stakeholders to prioritize a project(or a few projects)from your city's Pedestrian Master Plan, and then get to work implementing that project. For more resources to help implement your Pedestrian Master Plan,visit: http://www.walkinginfo.org/index.cfm Why do it? Once your city has adopted a Pedestrian Master Plan,the next step is implementing the plan. A plan alone is not enough to increase walking and active commuting. By completing projects outlined in the Pedestrian Master Plan,you are increasing awareness of your city's commitment to creating a safe environment for walking. 3. Implement a Complete Streets project How to do it: Choose a project(or a few projects)to implement that will help you meet the goals identified in your Complete Streets policy. Example projects include: • Bike lanes, bike trails, sidewalks, street-scaping,curb extensions, mid-block crossings,and other tools are applied to major streets for commuters and recreation. • Striped on-street parking,tree wells,and medians should be added to provide a safe waiting place on major streets.These practices also manage and calm traffic while reducing noise and perceived danger. • Narrow the lanes of main streets,especially those with bike lanes. In this case, bike lanes or paved shoulders also add parking and a sidewalk buffer. • Construction of sidewalks should be initially focused within'''Ato%mile of town centers and schools. Why do it?Turning policy into practice is not an easy task. Using the Complete Streets framework provides a proven approach and makes the process more likely to be successful. Four key steps to implementation include: 1 1. Restructure procedures to accommodate all users on every project; 2. Develop new design policies and guides; 3. Offer workshops and other training opportunities to planners and engineers; and 4. Institute better ways to measure performance and collect data on how well the streets are serving all users. National Complete Streets Coalition. http://www.completestreets.org/changing-policy/policy-elements/#implementation (1" l BLUE ZONES PROJECT- by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by Wellmark. 03.9. 4. Implement a Safe Routes to Schools project How to do it:Safe Routes to School programs examine conditions around schools and conduct projects and activities that work to improve safety and accessibility,while reducing traffic and air pollution in the vicinity of schools. Example projects include: • Slowing down traffic around schools • Constructing sidewalks and concrete curb extensions • Educational campaigns • Purchasing LED streetlights, school crossing signs, and flashers Visit the National Safe Routes to School website to find your state's Safe Routes To School contact and other helpful information: http://www.saferoutesinfo.org Why do it:Adults walk for only 21%of trips that are one mile or less,and children walk for only 36%of trips to school in that same distance.2 Children who walk or bike to school have higher daily levels of physical activity and better cardiovascular fitness than children who do not actively commute to school.3 Safe Routes to School programs help make bicycling and walking to school safer and more appealing transportation choices,thus encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle from an early age. 5. Implement a permanent strategy to enhace personal safety in areas where people are or could be physically active How to do it: Identify high crime neighborhoods or neighborhoods with a high percentage of vacant or abandoned buildings where residents are less likely to be physically active. Determine what you can do to improve the safety and appeal of these neighborhoods. Ideas to improve safety include: installing streetlights, building/maintaining sidewalks, projects to reduce or slow traffic(e.g., speed humps or traffic circles), improve/maintain street crossings, increase police presence,decrease the number of abandoned buildings and homes,clean up graffiti and trash,or plant trees and other greenery. Why do it?Individuals who perceive their neighborhood to be unsafe or live in a neighborhood with high physical disorder are less likely to be physically active or encourage their children's physical activity.'One strategy for promoting physical activity is to ensure that neighborhoods are safe and appealing,so that residents are comfortable walking, biking,and playing in their neighborhoods. 6. Establish new community gardens How to do it:Visit the American Community Gardening Association (http://communitygarden.org/index.php)for resources, including how to find community gardens in your area,start-up guides, how-to manuals,evaluation tools and more.Contact other cities that have community garden programs to learn from their experiences. Here are a few cities that have successful municipal community garden programs and their related websites: 2 Active Living Research 2009.Active Transportation: Making the Link from Transportation to Physical activity and Obesity. Research Brief. Summer 2009. 3 Davison, K. K.,J. L. Werder,and C.T. Lawson. 2008.Children's active commuting to school:Current knowledge and future directions. Preventing Chronic Disease 5(3):A100. 4 Miles R. Neighborhood Disorder, Perceived safety,and readiness to encourage use of local playgrounds.Am J Prey Med 2008;34(4):275-281. 6j1( BLUE ZONES PROJECT- by H&sTHWAYS Sponsored by Wellmark. �v Sacramento Department of Parks and Recreation http://www.citvofsacramento.org/parksandrecreation/parks/community garden.htm City of Portland Community Garden Program http://www.portlandonline.com/parks/index.cfm?c=39846 Palo Alto,CA Community Garden Program http://www.citvofpaloalto.org/living/news/details.asp?News)D=457&TargetlD=41 Why do it?Community gardens enhance the health and well-being of members by providing physical,spiritual,and nutritional benefits while providing a sense of worth and involvement.There are many models for community gardens,but in general a community garden is a piece of land gardened by a group of people. Recognizing the benefits of community gardens,several cities have created community garden programs operated by the city.The cities of Hartford (Connecticut), Palo Alto (California), Portland(Oregon),and Sacramento(California)maintain a municipal garden program.' 7. Complete at least one new Placemaking project that fulfills the Power of 10 criteria and includes the four key qualities of successful places as defined by Project for Public Places How to do it:Creating a great public space doesn't need to be expensive or elaborate. However,according to the non-profit Project for Public Spaces,any great space should fulfill the Power of 10,which is the place needs to offer at least 10 things to do or 10 reasons to be there.These could include a place to sit,playgrounds to enjoy,art to touch,music to hear,food to eat, history to experience,and people to meet. In addition,successful public spaces share four common qualities:they are accessible; people are engaged in activities there;the space is comfortable and has a good image;and finally,it is a sociable place:one where people meet each other and take people when they come to visit. For great ideas and examples of successful placemaking projects,visit: The Project for Public Spaces htto://www.pps.org Why do it?Research suggests that a high sense of trust and reciprocity among citizens is linked with lower mortality,higher general health status, lower risk of major depression, prevention of crime,and enhanced economic development.6 Create public spaces where people have the opportunity to socialize and enjoy each other.Great public spaces are places where people want to be,celebrations are held,social and economic exchanges take place,friends run into each other, and cultures mix. 8. Complete at least one new Urban Greening project How to do it: Examples of projects include:planting trees,creating/improving local parks,creating open space,establishing community gardens,creating nature trails, planting flowers, landscaping in urban areas,creating orchards,etc. For more information and examples of what other cities are doing to promote green space,see the following website: Project for Public Spaces—See what other ci ties c e ties are doing to create attractive public spaces including green spaces to bring people together and increase well-being and vitality in cities 5 Public Health Law&Policy. Establishing Land Use Protections for Community Gardens.March 2009. 6 Leyden K.Social capital and the built environment:The importance of walkable neighborhoods.American Journal of Public Health 2003;93(9):1546-1551. ( ) BLUE ZONES PROJECT- by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by Wellmark. r'D,r 7 http://www.pps.org Why do it? The benefits of human exposure to and interaction with nature are well documented.'For example,studies have found that patients with natural views in a healthcare setting require fewer painkillers,have fewer complications,and shorter hospital stays. Exposure to natural views has also been found to reduce stress in the workplace,increase positive attitudes, and have a restorative effect.Social benefits of green spaces include increased community cohesion,as green spaces provide a meeting place for individuals to develop and maintain neighborhood social ties. III Blue Zones Project'""is a trademark of Blue Zones,LLC.All rights reserved.Copyright O 2012 Blue Zones,LLC.All rights reserved. Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.Blue Cross,*Blue Shield,e the Cross and Shield* symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association,an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.Wellmark®is a registered mark of Wellmark,Inc.m 2012 Wellmark,Inc. ' Mailer C,Townsend M,Pryor A,Brown P,St Leger L. Healthy nature healthy people:'contact with nature'as an upstream health promotion intervention for populations. Health Promotion International 2006;21(1):45-54. 6_1BLUE ZONES PROJECT` by HEALTHWAYS Sponsored by SIGN UP, PLEDGE, AND TAKE ACTION Wellmark, vova Steps to register as an individual 1. Go to www.bluezonesproject.com UCv[Lonrsr of 2. Click on Join Today «rt - OLUEIOIES 3. Complete the pledge/registration v ILform _ _ vift JOIN THE MOVEMENT 4.. If your employer is participating, select _,M s the checkbox— I have an organization code and enter the organization code provided by your employer DISCOVER WAYS TOO WI IMPROVE YOUR OFF AND COMMUNITY 5. Click on Complete Registration Congratulations! Your registration is complete. .._........................ Pledge to take action! Get credit for your action. 1 Hover over My Tools in the top right 1 Once you've completed your action, corner and select My Pledge Actions navigate back to the My Tools drop-down from the drop-down menu menu and select My Pledge Actions 2. Explore actions that will improve 2. Under the Actions Summary tab, check your well-being from the following the box marked I Did It! next to the categories: Move Naturally, Eat Wisely, action you've completed Connect, Habitat, and Right Outlook 3. Explore the other activities and tools the 3. Then pledge to take action by clicking ( website has to offer and keep going on Pledge To Do This in the orange box to your journey to well-being! the right of the item description You have now pledged to improve By taking action, you've helped your your well-being! town move closer to certification! Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.Blue Cross®,Blue Shield®,and the Cross@ and Shield®symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association,an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.Wellmark@ is a registered mark of Wellmark,Inc.©2012 Wellmark,Inc. Blue Zones ProjectrU and Blue Zones CommunityTM are trademarks of Blue Zones,LLC.All rights reserved. Copyright®2012 Blue Zones,LLC and Healthways,Inc.All rights reserved. rt: _ Gallup• Healthways .41 Well-Being Index5 Waterloo Scores by Question �G r Domains - Question Waterloo Iowa - Nation Variance. . Iowa -1,,: Step of the ladder you personally feel you stand at this time? 7.0 6.9 6.9 +0.1 Step you think you will stand about five years from now? 7.5 7.6 7.7 -0.1 Life Evaluation Struggling score 44.9 43.9 43.8 -1 0 Suffering score 3.2 3.6 3.7 -0.4 Thrivingscore 51.9 52.5 52.5 -0.6 %experienced enjoyment 87,2 86.7 84.2 +;,=5 %experienced happiness 88.8 91.0 87.8 -2.2 i%treated with respect 94.1 92.6 91.9 +1 "c: %who learned or did something interesting 56.6 63.8 63.1 -7.2 Emotional Health %who smiled or laughed a lot 81.8 83.5 81.9 -1.7 %without anger 88.0 88.5 86.0 -0.5 %without depression 79.8 83.3 82.6 -3.5 %without sadness 85.5 86.1 82.0 -0.6 %without stress 65.8 61.2 59.5 =4.6 %without worry 77.7 71.4 67.8 +s BMI 28.5 27.9 27.4 +0 6 %not sick with a cold 93.1 93.2 93.6 -0,1 %not sick with the flu 98.5 98.6 97.9 -0.1 %who felt well rested yesterday 78.6 73.3 70.4 -P;. %who had enough energy to get things done yesterday 86.9 88.3 85.5 -1.4 %without a headache 89.7 88.1 86.5 -1 rs %withoutasthma 88.1 89.4 88.2 -1.3 Physical Health %without cancer 93.7 93.5 92.6 +02 /o without depression 79.8 83.3 82.6 -3.5 '%without diabetes 86.7 89.9 88.9 -3.2 %without health keeping you from usual activities 72.2 76.7 73.7 -4.5 %without health problems preventing you from doing things 75.6 80.0 78.2 -4.4 i"/0 without heart attack 96,5 95.3 95.6 +12 '%without high blood pressure 68.4 72.2 69.8 -3.8 %without high cholesterol 67.5 73.9 73.4 -6.4 %without physical pain 77.7 78.2 75.8 -0.5 :%who ate healthy all day 68.2 65.8 66.1 .2 Healthy Behavior '%who don't smoke 76.5 77.3 79.1 -0.8 /a who exercised for 30 or more minutes 58.5 52.6 51.6 -5 9 %who had 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables 59.2 53.4 56.8 +5 ;Get to use your strengths to do what you do best every day 88.4 84.9 84.1 +5.5 Satisfaction with your job/work you do 88.0 88.4 87.1 -0.4 Work Environment;Supervisor always creates environment that is trusting/open 74.5 78.5 78.9 -4.0 (Supervisor treats you like he/she is your partner 49.0 57.8 56.4 -8.8 !City/area where you live getting better as a place to live 55.0 60.8 55.6 -5.8 Easy to get affordable fresh fruits and vegetables 93.9 91.0 90.8 +29 I Easy to get a safe place to exercise 95.2 92.1 90.7 +:3 1 Easy to get clean and safe water 96.7 97.4 95.0 -0.7 Easy to get medicine 94.4 92.4 91.4 +2.0 ;Enough money to buy food 88.9 84.3 81.2 +4.6 Basic Access :Enough money to pay for health care and/or medicines 87.5 84.9 80.9 '2 0 Enough money to provide adequate shelter or housing 92.8 93.4 90.3 -0.6 Feel safe walking alone et night 67.9 83,5 71.2 -15.6 'Have a personal doctor 88.2 83.4 78.6 .4 8 +Have health insurance coverage 92.0 86.9 82.7 --5 1 Satisfied with the city or area where you live 86.3 88.2 85.2 - -1.9 ;Visited a dentist in the last 12 months 68.6 67.8 64.7 +n 8