Project Details
- Co-Directors: Roshanak Mehdipanah, PhD, MS; Marc Zimmerman, PhD
- Managing Director: Alison Grodzinski, MLIS
- Project Dates: 2024-2029
- Funding Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The Prevention Research Center of Michigan’s (PRC-MI) core research project for the 2024-2029 term will work with partners to support local groups in repurposing vacant lots into spaces for physical activity using the Vacant to Active (V2A) program. Although researchers have established direct and indirect links between vacant land reuse programs and physical health, there are gaps in our understanding of strategies to ensure these projects are accessible, feasible, and sustainable.
Study Context
Our built environment plays a part in our overall well-being. Inviting, safe, and accessible community green spaces are places to gather, play, and explore. Building and restoring structures to support green spaces, like walking/biking paths or playgrounds, further encourages people to participate in physical activity. Other examples of how these repurposed lots can be used include creating community gardens, hosting local events, or organizing sports games.
Learning from the community what they need to accomplish these projects and how best to support them is crucial in maximizing the positive impacts of “greening” local spaces.
Research Approach
In collaboration with our multi-sector community advisory board, we will conduct a Hybrid Type III Effectiveness-Implementation study to identify challenges and best practices for using and maintaining vacant properties to promote the physical activity of residents in Flint, Michigan.
We are partnering with local public health departments to translate and build capacity for the public health workforce to engage in this work. Additionally, we will disseminate our methods, translation products, and findings to the Flint community and other audiences, including state and local policymakers, researchers, and practitioners.