Eau Claire (WQOW) - A new report shows the state of Wisconsin is not on a healthy course.
The report released Tuesday by Trust for America's Health, says Wisconsin is on pace to have an obesity rate of 56% by 2030. That's more than half the state's adult population is obese not just overweight. That's about a 30% jump in the obesity rate in 19 years.
The city of Eau Claire says it's trying to do something to create a healthier community.
An advisory committee made up of local health experts, non-profits and others are hosting focus groups to get your input. One thing they will talk about is food access.
"For example if we look at food, if the community evaluates that there's food deserts there could be more of a structure set up to offer community gardens within parks or other private spaces so that the community in different neighborhoods could have access to local food," says Ned Noel, City of Eau Claire associate planner.
Sidewalks, bike trails and parks are other examples of how cities have addressed this concern in the past.
What are your thoughts? How could Eau Claire become a healthier community? The first meeting of the focus group is Tuesday at 7p.m. at the Royal Credit Union's headquarters in Phoenix Park. The meetings will continue throughout the fall and winter. Recommendations could be made to the city by the spring.
