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Blue Zones project Case Study: Albert Lea, MN

Midwestern city, supported by Blue Zones Project, climbs out of economic crisis with projected lifespans increased by nearly 3 years and economic value by the millions.

The first Blue Zones Project demonstration community paints a picture of success. From $7.5 million savings in annual health care costs for employers as a result of a decline in smokers to 2.9 projected years added to participant's lifespan within a year of participating in the Blue Zones Project, Albert Lea's commitment to well-being has resulted in numerous measurable impacts. 

Albert Lea: Operation Transformation

Albert Lea was featured on the popular Irish television show Operation Transformation. Producers visited Minnesota in December, and spoke with Organization Lead Ellen Kehr about the results Albert Lea has seen since becoming a Blue Zones Community. 

Check out Albert Lea's impressive transformation as a Blue Zones Community, including a 90 percent increase in community satisfaction, a 40 percent drop in city worker healthcare costs, a 25 percent increase in property values, a 40 percent increase in biking and walking, and three years of life added by program participants.