Blanding
- Population: 3,200
- Designation Year: Spring 2022, Spring 2025
To safeguard health, Blanding promotes transportation that’s non-polluting and reduces fossil fuel consumption. It is home to a pedestrian and bicycle system that connects with county and regional trails, allowing ample opportunities for active transportation and exercise. Several companies in the city provide their employees with annual passes to the city's recreation center, further promoting opportunities to be healthy. Blanding also focuses on building resiliency and improving mental health. The community started a campaign called “Let’s Do This” to reduce youth substance abuse and suicide by increasing family engagement.
HEALTH STRATEGIES
Collaboration
- A relationship with the local health department
- Health-related objectives in the city's general plan
Access to Healthy Food
- A community garden
Active Living
- Free and/or low-cost community sports/fitness programs for adults and children
- Provided guidance on joint-use agreements for facilities in the community that can be used for physical activity
- An active transportation plan
- An ordinance that requires new subdivisions to provide sidewalks and lights
Mental Health
- At least one evidence-based program or initiative that provides education, awareness, and training to community members around mental health
- Promoted the use of the SafeUT app in schools and other community centers
- Medication disposal services, locations, or programs
- Gun locks available for free for community members
2025 Redesignation:
To be redesignated in Spring 2025, Blanding City monitored local health data using the SHARP survey and implemented strategies to improve physical activity and mental health. The city added new pickleball courts at the local park and hosted free tournaments open to all residents. The city also worked with local schools to conduct a mental health awareness campaign for students.
HEALTH STRATEGIES
Active Living
- New pickleball complex at the public park, including free tournaments
Mental Health
- Mental health awareness campaigns for students
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