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Publication Date

Spring 2010

Degree Type

Thesis - Campus Access Only

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Interdisciplinary Studies

Advisor

Gary Pereira

Keywords

fast food, gis, low income

Subject Areas

Geography; Geographic Information Sciences; Sociology, Demography

Abstract

Residential proximity to food service areas is relevant to health studies. Using cartographic representation and analysis, this paper shows travel times from residences to restaurants and grocery stores, demonstrating convenience and access within certain geographic areas. Travel within two California cities, Oakland and Berkeley, is examined and discussed. A relationship between race and median income on the census tract level and locations of fast food and grocery stores is defined. The study's findings illustrate that compared with higher income and White populations, lower income and non-White populations have a relatively longer travel time to grocery stores and a relatively shorter travel time to fast food restaurants. Therefore, within the selected geographic areas, lower income and non-White populations experience greater access to unhealthy food choices and relatively limited availability of healthy food.

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