Talking Headways Podcast: The Peking Order
This week on the podcast I’m joined by Dr. Mariela Alfonzo to discuss her recent paper, "Walkability, Obesity and Urban Design in Chinese Neighborhoods," in the journal Preventive Medicine. The findings on both cycling and obesity might surprise you.
By
Jeff Wood
4:46 PM EST on March 5, 2015
This week on the podcast I’m joined by Dr. Mariela Alfonzo to discuss her recent paper, “Walkability, Obesity and Urban Design in Chinese Neighborhoods,” in the journal Preventive Medicine. The findings on both cycling and obesity might surprise you.
We also discuss how policy change works in Chinese cities and how much power mayors have to make those changes, as well as what motivates them. Perhaps my favorite topic was the Peking Order, or the level of importance assigned to each mode of transportation. Surprisingly, buses are first, but not for the reasons you would think. Join us as we travel east on this week’s Talking Headways.
More from Streetsblog New York City
Mamdani Will Upgrade Brooklyn Bridge Manhattan-Side Entrance By June
DOT will begin start construction in April of the Adams-era proposal to give cyclists and pedestrians their own entrances to the bridge.
March 27, 2026
Cycle of Rage: One Driver’s Convenience, One Woman’s Death
How can we rein in drivers when the whole system is set up for them?
March 27, 2026
Friday Video: Buenos Aires Will Challenge Everything You Think You Know About Buses
The Paris of South America has an amazing bus system — but it doesn't run like North American ones at all.
March 27, 2026
New York City Cannot Repeat Boston’s Big Dig Mistake
The city must learn from its neighbor to the north.
March 27, 2026
Friday’s Headlines: Mayor on a Citi Bike Edition
People and mayors who get around on foot, on bikes or on transit have a greater appreciation for our city. Plus other news.
March 27, 2026

Comments Are Temporarily Disabled
Streetsblog is in the process of migrating our commenting system. During this transition, commenting is temporarily unavailable.
Once the migration is complete, you will be able to log back in and will have full access to your comment history. We appreciate your patience and look forward to having you back in the conversation soon.