A study published in Cities: the International Journal of Urban Policy and Planning, analyzes the characteristics of 170 census tracts in Louisville, KY to better understand what effect walkability has on neighborhood sustainability.  

For the study, researchers developed models that evaluated the correlation between an area's Walkscore™ and neighborhood housing valuation, foreclosures, and crime as three broad measures of urban sustainability. The study set out to define walkability and its analysis shows a positive impact not only on neighborhood housing valuation but also on neighborhood crime and foreclosure rates. The results provide policy opportunities and support for planners, elected officials, and citizen groups to pursue strategies that encourage the development of more walkable and sustainable neighborhoods.