Work

Examining the geometry of streets through accessibility: new insights from streetspace allocation analysis

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: This paper describes streetspace allocation analysis, a method that uses street cross-sections to measure footway and carriageway widths and quantify a key parameter of street design citywide. The resulting network-based streetspace allocation metrics are employed on a proof-of-concept study of train station service areas in London, applying shortest-path analysis under a place and walking prioritisation approach. Overall, streetspace allocation statistics for London confirm the citywide predominance of space allocated for vehicular transport over pedestrian uses. A comparison of the current distribution and proposed re-allocation of streetspace on streets near stations allows for the investigation of the effects of streetspace enhancements, which tend to be beneficial in reducing pedestrian movement impedance and extending service areas. The methods presented here can offer valuable analytical capacity for developing new transit-oriented schemes and designing place-based streets that support sustainable transport and sustainable urban development.

Source: Environment and Planning B Urban Analytics and City Science

DOI: 10.1177/23998083221139849

Authors: Nicolas Palominos, Duncan A Smith

Institution: University College London

Language: English

Topic: Urban Transport and Accessibility

Subfield: Transportation

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: green

Funder: Comisión Nacional de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica