A census of the US near-roadway population: Public health and environmental justice considerations

Rowangould, GM

HERO ID

2508933

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

2013

HERO ID 2508933
In Press No
Year 2013
Title A census of the US near-roadway population: Public health and environmental justice considerations
Authors Rowangould, GM
Journal Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment
Volume 25
Page Numbers 59-67
Abstract This study estimates the size and distribution of the population living near high volume roads in the US, investigates race and income disparities in these near roadway populations, and considers the coverage of the national ambient air quality monitoring network. Every US census block is classified by traffic density and proximity to roads falling within several traffic volume ranges using year 2008 traffic data and the 2010 and 2000 US Census. The results indicate that 19% of the population lives near high volume roads. Nationally, greater traffic volume and density are associated with larger shares of non-white residents and lower median household incomes. Analysis at the county level finds wide variation in the size of near roadway populations and the severity of environmental justice concerns. Every state, however, has some population living near a high volume road and 84% of counties show some level of disparity. The results also suggest that most counties with residents living near high volume roads do not have a co-located regulatory air quality monitor. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Doi 10.1016/j.trd.2013.08.003
Wosid WOS:000328303100008
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Is Public Yes
Keyword Air quality; Environmental justice; Vehicle emissions; Public health; Monitoring network