Department of Transportation


New Jersey Future In Transportation

NJFITness Campaign

NJFIT is a response to two basic concerns of New Jersey residents - public health and congestion. Traffic congestion and sprawling development patterns have threatened safety, ease of travel and the physical health of New Jersey residents. NJFIT is the New Jersey Department of Transportation's (NJDOT) solution to improve the quality of life for all that live and work in New Jersey.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an "Inactivity Epidemic" has resulted in a rapid decline of public health and it has warned Americans that there are physical costs of inactivity, including:

  • Increased risk of obesity.
  • Increased risk of major diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and colon cancer.
  • Increased symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  • Poorer development and maintenance of bones and muscles.

While there are many causes of the Inactivity Epidemic, today's car dependent lifestyles are a contributing factor - and one the NJDOT is seeking to change. By transforming the already existing environment to include more sidewalks, bike paths and other facilities that offer alternatives to driving, we can help increase physical activity. Through NJFIT, NJDOT seeks to promote Healthy Community Design* that:

  • Promotes physical activity;
  • Improves air quality;
  • Reduces contributions to climate change;
  • Lowers risk of injuries; and
  • Increases social connection and a sense of community.

obesity rates among young adults graphic
Obesity rates in the United States have gone up
considerably in the 10 years between 1996 and 2006.
Healthy Community Design promotes physical activity through walking photo
Healthy Community Design promotes physical activity through walking.
Research by the University of British Columbia suggests that for every additional 30 minutes spent in the car, there is a three percent greater chance of being obese.

*Source: CDC Fact Sheet on Healthy Community Design (pdf 343k)



Last updated date:October 11, 2019 7:28 AM