Table 1 Exploratory factor analysis of the Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale (NEWS)

NEWS walkability enablers^a (Cronbach’s α = 0.84)

The sidewalks in my neighborhood are well maintained (paved, even, and not a lot of cracks).

0.515

There are bicycle or pedestrian trails in or near my neighborhood that are easy to get to

0.467

There are trees along the streets in my neighborhood

0.445

Trees give shade for the sidewalks in my neighborhood

0.486

There are many interesting things to look at while walking in my neighborhood

0.607

My neighborhood is generally free from litter

0.563

There are many attractive natural sights in my neighborhood (such as landscaping, views)

0.586

There are attractive buildings/homes in my neighborhood

0.586

The speed of traffic on the street I live on is usually slow (30 mph or less)

0.433

The speed of traffic on most nearby streets is usually slow (30 mph or less)

0.451

There are crosswalks and pedestrian signals to help walkers cross busy streets in my neighborhood

0.445

The crosswalks in my neighborhood help walkers feel safe crossing busy streets

0.541

My neighborhood streets are well lit at night

0.557

Walkers and bikers on the streets in my neighborhood can be easily seen by people in their homes

0.473

NEWS walkability barriers^a (Cronbach’s α = 0.78)

There is a high crime rate in my neighborhood

0.557

The crime rate in my neighborhood makes it unsafe to go on walks during the day

0.534

The crime rate in my neighborhood makes it unsafe to go on walks at night

0.625

There is so much traffic along the street I live on that it makes it difficult or unpleasant to walk in my neighborhood

0.525

There is so much traffic along nearby streets that it makes it difficult or unpleasant to walk in my neighborhood

0.524

Most drivers exceed the posted speed limits while driving in my neighborhood

0.424

When walking in my neighborhood, there are a lot of exhaust fumes (such as from cars, buses)

0.479

Neighborhood Satisfaction^b (Cronbach’s α = 0.91)

Highway access from your home

0.43

Access to public transportation in your neighborhood

0.42

Commuting time to work/school

0.51

Access to shopping in your neighborhood

0.57

Number of friends you have in your neighborhood

0.49

Number of people you know in your neighborhood

0.49

How easy and pleasant it is to walk in your neighborhood

0.76

How easy and pleasant it is to bicycle in your neighborhood

0.68

Quality of schools in your neighborhood

0.61

Access to entertainment in your neighborhood (restaurants, movies, clubs, etc.)

0.65

Safety from threat of crime in your neighborhood

0.70

Safety from threat of violence (or violent crime) in your neighborhood

0.71

Amount and speed of traffic in your neighborhood

0.60

Noise from traffic in my neighborhood

0.56

Number and quality of food stores in your neighborhood

0.63

Number and quality of restaurants in your neighborhood

0.63

Neighborhood as a good place to raise children

0.66

Neighborhood as a good place to live

0.67