Defining Livability for Freight-Centric Communities: Identifying Priorities of Residents of the Lamar Avenue Corridor in Memphis, TN

Community livability is increasingly being examined and promoted as exemplary practice. This is due in part to the recognition of environmental, infrastructure, and land use variables contributing to sustainable, vibrant, and healthy places for people to live and work. The impact of freight on an urban community is significant, yet few efforts in the United States have been devoted to creating policies and practices that support livability while also recognizing the critical importance of freight transport to economic vitality. This paper summarizes an approach to understanding freight impacts on neighborhoods, defining what constitutes a freight-centric community, and identifying the livability priorities of residents. The methodology for the current study is presented, outlining stakeholder survey instruments and recruitment approaches. The livability priorities identified through the stakeholder surveys will be used to develop strategies or plans for improvement that include private sector-led operational changes, infrastructure improvements, public-sector policies, and placemaking. This research also tests the effectiveness of the term "livability" among stakeholder groups. While this work is based on Lamar Avenue, a high-volume, heavily congested freight corridor in Memphis, TN, this research will also benefit other freight-centric communities across the country.