Evidence suggests that improving a community’s built environment can influence the daily physical activity
levels among its residents. For instance, incorporating walking trails and safe bicycle paths into a neighborhood's
design are effective strategies for increasing physical activity. Based on this evidence, the Department of Public
Health’s PLACE Program funded five agencies, including city governments and non-profit organizations, to pursue community
design policies that improve the built environment in their respective cities. In the summer of 2008, each PLACE Initiative
was awarded approximately $100,000 per year over a 3 year period to pursue a policy and physical project. Examples of policies
include incorporating a Health and Wellness Element into a city's General Plan and for one city, creating its first Bicycle and
Pedestrian Master Plan.
Additional PLACE Initiative Information
Future Funding Opportunities
Please note there is likely to be a new funding opportunity in November 2009. Please check the DPH Division of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention
website regularly for more information.
If you would like to be placed on our mailing list
to receive information about other funding opportunities or built environment workshops please send your contact information to
place@ph.lacounty.gov.The previous Request for Initiatives Application and
Sample Agreement are posted for your reference.
Department of Public Health, PLACE Initiative Press Release:
"Department of Public Health Partners with Cities and Community Organizations to Promote Physical Activity."
Administrative Documents for PLACE Initiatives
The attached administrative documents are for PLACE Initiative staff. Documents include the most updated versions of monthly reports,
instructions for travel, and budget modification forms.
