I read an article in The Austin American-Statesman (originally in NYT or Wash. Post??) recently about combating obesity. I've never been to Europe, but the article described a situation in England that I think sounds like it would be worth a try.
Apparently London charges vehicles to drive in the inner-city. The reasons they publicly announce in doing this are to decrease traffic, make it more ped. friendly and increase revenue. The REAL reason they've done this, according to the article is to "encourage" people to get off their asses and walk or bike (pardon) for health...
I'm wondering if this strategy has been implemented anywhere else specifically in the US and has it worked to decrease obesity? Would the local lazies just avoid the area altogether- or would the public transport systems make up for the lack of private vehivles?
Comments? Witness accounts?
Apparently London charges vehicles to drive in the inner-city. The reasons they publicly announce in doing this are to decrease traffic, make it more ped. friendly and increase revenue. The REAL reason they've done this, according to the article is to "encourage" people to get off their asses and walk or bike (pardon) for health...
I'm wondering if this strategy has been implemented anywhere else specifically in the US and has it worked to decrease obesity? Would the local lazies just avoid the area altogether- or would the public transport systems make up for the lack of private vehivles?
Comments? Witness accounts?