Planning and Effectiveness
Research Directory
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The impact of improved walkability on Middle Tennessee’s obesity rates and obesity related health concerns: A literature review, 2025
Research Overview Obesity is a major and growing health concern in the United States, including in Tennessee. One common idea is that improving neighborhood walkability (i.e., how easy it is to walk to places like stores, parks, and services) can help reduce obesity by encouraging physical activity. This project examines…
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Assessing Heat Vulnerability In Nashville: The Role of Building Value, Tree Canopy, and Socioeconomic Factors, 2025
Research Overview Cities like Nashville are getting hotter due to the “urban heat island” effect, where buildings, roads, and other surfaces trap heat and raise temperatures, especially in certain neighborhoods. This project examines which factors make some areas more vulnerable to extreme heat than others. Using data from sources such…
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Short-term Rentals Impact on Housing and Crime, 2025
Research Overview Short-term rentals, such as Airbnb properties, have rapidly increased in the Nashville area over the past decade. While they create economic opportunities and support tourism, they may also affect housing affordability and neighborhood safety. This project examines how the growth of short-term rentals is related to changes in…
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Criminal Justice Involvement as a Barrier on the Pathway out of Homelessness, 2025-2026
Research Overview Homelessness in the United States is at a record high, with more than 770,000 people experiencing homelessness as of 2024. Many face major barriers to finding stable housing, accessing health care, and securing employment. One factor that creates additional challenges is involvement in the criminal justice system, which…