Bloomberg American Health Initiative

The American Health Podcast

Bloomberg American Health Initiative

  • Making Cities Safer, One Vacant Lot at a Time

Making Cities Safer, One Vacant Lot at a Time

Wednesday 20th November 2019

Discover how cleaning up vacant lots can reduce gun violence in urban areas with insights from Dr. Charles Branas on 'The American Health Podcast'.
15 minutes
Informative
Empowering
Hopeful
Encouraging
Educational

About this podcast

The American Health Podcast
Author:
Bloomberg American Health Initiative
Overview:
Categories:
Policy & Advocacy
Body & Mind
Financial Health in Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
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Episodes:
59 (View all)
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Transforming Urban Spaces: A Unique Approach to Reducing Gun Violence

Once you clean and green or get a building fixed up, neighbors do not want it to return to the way it was. So they will go out of their way to informally police that space on a day-to-Day basis. And in the end this does not move crime around the corner. It actually reduces the commission of these acts.
Gun violence is a daunting issue with no simple solutions. But what if cleaning up vacant lots could make a real difference? In this episode of 'The American Health Podcast', Dr. Charles Branas, Chair of Columbia University’s Department of Epidemiology, shares a compelling strategy that’s backed by science. Dr. Branas discusses how reducing blight in urban areas can lead to significant reductions in firearm violence. Imagine abandoned buildings and lots being transformed into clean, safe spaces.
Not only does this discourage illegal activities, but it also encourages residents to take pride in their neighborhoods and keep an eye out for each other. This episode dives into the data, showing how cities that have adopted this approach have seen a remarkable drop in gun violence, with reductions ranging from six to fifty-six percent. It’s not just about cleaning up; it’s about community empowerment and legislative support.
Anti-blight ordinances play a crucial role in this strategy, making it easier for communities to maintain these spaces and keep them safe. If you’re curious about innovative ways to tackle gun violence or interested in urban development and public safety, this episode offers valuable insights and practical solutions.