- The overall food environment is not the best in this section of the Linden area. There is sufficient lighting via streetlights and building lights. The sidewalks are in sufficient areas, but they are not well kept. Most of the time there is heavy, congested traffic. There is a bus route that travels down Cleveland Avenue, which is the major street in this area. There is high crime and safety is an issue.
- There are limited options for healthy foods. Most families would need to travel outside of their neighborhood to fin an adequate grocery store. There is an urban garden at a local community center, but it would also be outside of the 2-7 block square.
- The area is food insecure because it does lack a major grocery store. There was a Kroger in the area, but it closed a few years ago due to financial difficulties.
- The area is a food swamp because there are several fast food chains, convenience stores, and liquor stores flooding the area. These unhealthy food options threaten the health of the residents.
- There are several changes that can be made to improve the food ways of the neighborhood. Establishing a major grocery store would provide residents with adequate food options. There could also be more programs to educate families about food sovereignty and proper nutrition. Limiting the amount of fast food restaurants in the area could also help improve health. The Linden area is one of the most food insecure areas in the city and major changes need to be made to improve the community.
