Neighbourhood accessibility and walkability of subsidised housing in shrinking US cities

Abstract

This article advances the discussion of subsidised housing and accessible and walkable neighbourhoods by focusing on the characteristics of cities experiencing population decline. We examine the neighbourhood context of subsidised housing with respect to walkability and accessibility in shrinking cities using Walk Score and a walkability index that considers the unique neighbourhood dynamics in these cities and access to anchor institutions and transit. Our results confirm recent studies that the majority of HUD units are in less walkable neighbourhoods and with low access to anchor institutions. Our results support the inclusion of more refined walkability and accessibility measures in affordable housing siting criteria. These measures would encourage the development of revitalisation strategies with enhanced walkability, services and transit.