Updated August 2019
In 2013, the City of Bowie passed a HEAL resolution, demonstrating the City’s commitment to improving the health and wellness of its residents through HEAL programs, policies, and environmental changes. Through the resolution, the City committed to 1) hosting educational wellness seminars for City staff, 2) developing healthy vending standards, 3) holding walking meetings when possible, 4) adopting nutrition standards for food offered at municipal events, 5) and designing safer roads for all users.
Six years later, the City has made tremendous strides implementing these HEAL goals. One highlight of these achievements is the progress the City’s has made encouraging residents to bike. In 2017, the City received a Gold-Level HEAL award for adopting a “National Bike Month” resolution and expanding a citywide trail network. Recently the city adopted a Complete Streets policy and is currently updating a new Trails Master Plan.
The City was also recognized for its commitment to employee wellness. Notable achievements include developing a healthy vending program, holding regular staff health seminars, and hosting “Walk This Way,” an annual staff step challenge. The City has also expanded these opportunities to city residents by hosting a weekly walking event and an annual Veterans Day 5k, a community-wide event that encouraged residents to stay active and move more.
In June 2019, Bowie was awarded Platinum, the HEAL Campaign’s highest recognition level. Bowie received this recognition level for meeting Platinum level criteria to 1) monitor and evaluate HEAL implementation efforts and 2) integrate HEAL policies and practices throughout the culture of the municipality through an interdepartmental and collaborative effort between the Staff Sustainability Team, Human Resources Department, and City Council. Congratulations, Bowie — the HEAL Campaign is excited to name another Platinum level HEAL City for implementing sustainable health policies, practices, and environmental changes for city staff and residents.