Newport Health Equity Zone — How We Began and Where We Are
Since 2015, the Newport Health Equity Zone has been able to accomplish important community- and societal-level social determinants of health-focused outcomes. Centering on resident voice and using a resident empowerment approach, the HEZ has fostered the following outcomes:
The HEZ has:
developed an active transportation advocacy plan, introduced resident-written Green & Complete Streets Ordinance, and installed 40 signs/ bike and walking trails in the neighborhood through the HEZ Transportation Workgroup;
increased the visibility of equity as a cite-wide priority as evidenced by the Newport Open Space Plan including a section on equity and Newport’s Comprehensive Plan specifically citing the HEZ as a critical partner in the planning and development of Newport;
achieved a long-term outcome of the placement of a resident on each of the following boards and commissions: (1) the Aquidneck Island Planning Commission, (2) the Affirmative Action Commission, and (3) the Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Commission;
provided training and education that addresses root causes of health disparities;
provided racial equity training to over 150 people;
trained 8 Community-based, Certified Community Health Workers that will contribute to RI’s vision of a community-located, culturally responsive healthcare delivery system;
established the North Side Community Farmers Market;
funded 20+ physical activity programs offered by residents, for residents; and
leveraged over 1.5 million dollars to support the HEZ Action Plan.
