Accessibility as a factor for a livable cities: The case of Salt City in Jordan

Abstract

Accessibility is known as the ease of reaching destinations. The accessibility is determined by the spatial distribution of potential destinations, and the magnitude, quality, and character of the activities found there. However, modernization and the fast expansion of urban development transform cities' local cultural life from walkable accessible places to just car places. This has encroached into every corner of our urban environment today. In addition, the available services and systems to manage the pedestrian movement in the historic core are inadequate and inefficient, posing risks to both the traffic and the pedestrians. That affects the walkability for cities gradually. Hence, this paper aims to explore the main physical elements that contribute toward accessibility under three main categories (pedestrians, vehicles and public transport) as one of the walkability characters in Salt City in Jordan. Historical review, site analysis, and survey were the main methodology used in this study.

The Role of Civil Society Organizations in Protecting the Urban Heritage in As-Salt City – Jordan

“…As-Salt city is characterized by its old neighborhoods with a unique architectural character built of yellow stone dating back to the golden age of the city between 1890 and 1920 (Figure 7). Due to the nature of the area, which is composed of rugged mountain ranges, these neighborhoods were formed in a way that is akin to cumulative construction between narrow streets and connected stairs, characterized by window openings and skillfully carved door arches [12].…”