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The link between public health and the built environment is becoming increasingly apparent, as the land use patterns of the last half century are manifested in negative health outcomes.  Obesity and other chronic diseases are increasingly being linked to how communities are designed and built.  As new developments are planned, and municipalities consider how they want to grow in the future, it is important that planning efforts incorporate consideration of public health issues. 

1)    Strengthen coordination between health and planning boards/agencies

2)    Incorporate public health into municipal master plans

3)    Expand programs designed to foster walking and biking to school

4)    Adopt and implement Hazard Mitigation Plans