Introducing the Pedestrian Accessibility Tool: Walkability Analysis for a Geographic Information System

Abstract

The indexes for walkability proposed so far refer generally to the closest amenities and public transport stops and the existing network structure. The weights of the attributes do not reflect the independently measured preferences of the users and residents. Design attributes such as the location and type of crossings and walkway design features are usually surveyed in walkability audits. However, such attributes are usually not considered when pedestrian walksheds or other accessibility-based walkability indexes are calculated. Nevertheless, these design attributes are very relevant for actual planning decisions. The proposed walkability index can be behaviorally calibrated, has been implemented as a geographic information system tool, and is published as open source software. The pedestrian accessibility tool allows the evaluation of existing and future urban plans with regards to walkability. The tool calculates Hansen-based accessibility indicators with the use of a customizable specification of the generalized walking costs, and it incorporates user-defined weights of destination attractiveness. The basic user workflow of the tool is summarized. Three case studies show real-world applications of the tool to support the planning of pedestrian infrastructure in an urban context. With indications of potential areas of improvement that have been reported by pilot users working in an urban planning department, hints are also given for future research.

Bikeability in Basel

“…The fourth and final attribute used to assess the cycling quality of segments was the riding environment. Erath et al found that the presence of greenery leads to a reduction of 20% in the perceived travel time for pedestrians, in comparison to the actual travel time ( 27 ). Because directness is more important for commuting cyclists than for pedestrians, we assumed a maximum decrease in cost of 10%.…”

Bridging the Gap between Landscape and Management within Marinas: A Review

“…Moreover, the incompatibility between landscape users and a status may lead to various negative outcomes [139] (Figures 3 and 7). The path has some elements designed to make it more attractive for users, such as the width, traffic separation measures, greenery and woodland availability, and the presence of other pedestrians [140,141]. Nevertheless, it also must be a coherent and legible place, allowing for an easy way to find a destination and return [142], and it must provide viewpoints around it.…”

Accessibility Measurement for Project Prioritization in Virginia

“…This approach gave the team a way to explicitly account for the impact of bicycle and pedestrian project improvements or general road improvements on the walking environment in a manner consistent with the scoring methodology for auto or transit projects. Literature indicates that design elements influence the quality of service (QOS) and the quality of service increases the propensity to walk (16)(17)(18). In essence, the propensity of a pedestrian to travel longer distances should increase on a high-quality sidewalk, compared with a low-quality sidewalk.…”