Equitable mobility: enhancing walkability and rollability for inclusive and healthy communities

Abstract

Walkability has long been championed as a solution to urban challenges, such as traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and public health crises. However, the concept of rollability is often overlooked, despite the significance of mobility justice and inclusion. This commentary expands the discourse by examining walkability and rollability within the framework of accessibility and inclusivity, emphasising the importance of urban design and planning. Whilst strides have been made to promote walkability, accessibility for other pavement users, such as those that roll, are often inadequately addressed. The commentary argues that transdisciplinary collaboration among urban planners, public health experts, and community members is crucial to creating inclusive spaces. Policy recommendations focus on funding for wider and more continuous sidewalks/pavements, dropped curbs, and infrastructure that caters to diverse mobility needs. Ultimately, this work underscores the health, social, and environmental benefits of designing equitable, active spaces, while calling for future research that investigates the intersectional experiences of different user groups to inform more inclusive urban policies.