Governors are launching innovative initiatives to provide access to healthy foods and more opportunities for physical activity. There are a range of positive health benefits that can accrue from increased physical activity and access to fresh and healthy foods.  

These three case studies examine initiatives to promote healthier living.

Michigan's "Cool Cities" Initiative is a comprehensive economic development program. It is providing numerous state resources to Michigan communities so that they can attract and retain more people. The program provides tools that assist communities that want to have healthy, walkable neighborhoods.

To view a case study on Michigan's "Cool Cities" Initiative, click here.

Pennsylvania's Fresh Food Financing Initiative is a program designed to encourage supermarket development in low-income areas. Through this program, Pennsylvania has entered into a public-private partnership to take steps to improve access to healthy foods.

To view a case study on Pennsylvania's Fresh Food Financing Initiative, click here.

Massachusetts' Transit-Oriented Development Strategy is a way to provide opportunities for increased physical activity as part of a sustainable growth approach to development. Massachusetts is utilizing transit-oriented development to produce communities where development is focused near transit stations. These communities are compact, mixed-use, and pedestrian-friendly.

To view a case study on Massachusetts' Transit-Oriented Development Strategy, click here.