Active Transit as Urban Infrastructure: The Vehicle for Promoting Public Health through Architecture

Abstract

This thesis studies ways that architecture and urban infrastructure can encourage the citizens of a sprawling city to engage with their environment and thereby improve their physical and mental health. This is done by promoting active transportation and social interaction through a re-development of transit station typologies and urban infrastructure. This project aims to provide Edmonton, Alberta with a network of stops that are more than transit stations- which all also serve as community centres: connecting housing, community, amenities, pedestrian-friendly zones and a more visible infrastructure for active transportation. This network will begin to facilitate a positive shift in the lifestyle of the sedentary driver in a sprawled city.