On May 26, the GEMOTT team organized a research seminar at ICTA-UAB with Dr. Katie Burford, from North Carolina State University and Columbia University. In her presentation, titled “Reclaiming Streets for Students: The Open Streets for Schools Program”, Katie explored New York City’s initiative to reclaim road space around schools and its implications for physical activity, health equity, and public space.
Based on ongoing research, the presentation examined key issues related to equity and access, such as the extent to which schools participating in the program differ from those that do not, and whether structures based on voluntary participation may unintentionally favor more advantaged neighborhoods. It also highlighted the importance of developing robust methodological approaches—such as study designs with comparable groups, direct observation tools for physical activity, and qualitative methods—to move toward more systematic data collection, stronger evaluation frameworks, and a better understanding of both impacts and community experiences.
The presentation generated an interesting and open exchange between Dr. Burford, Professor J. Aaron Hipp from North Carolina State University, and GEMOTT researchers, including doctoral and postdoctoral staff. The discussions connected the New York case with ongoing research and practices in Barcelona, especially regarding calmed school environments and “superblocks” (superilles). Participants reflected on co-creation processes, cultural perceptions of the street as a public space, and the role of urban planning in the face of public health and climate challenges.
The exchange also addressed various challenges and lessons learned, from implementation processes to community engagement.
As part of their visit, Dr. Burford and Professor Hipp, together with GEMOTT researchers, participated in a field visit to Glòries, El Clot, and the Poblenou superblock, where they exchanged perspectives on urban transformation and co-creation processes in the area.
