Work

The Built Environment and Urban Vibrancy: A Data-Driven Study of Non-Commuters’ Destination Choices Around Metro Stations

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The metro railway system is pivotal not just as a crucial transportation network for daily commuters but also as a significant enhancer of urban vibrancy, especially through its role in attracting a substantial volume of non-commuters. This study focuses on non-commuting travel behaviors around metro stations, exploring how the built environment affects non-commuters’ destination choices. A Random Forest model is developed based on data from Chengdu, China. The model is interpreted with SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis. Route length, building coverage, greenery, and proximity are key factors and indicate a nonlinear impact on non-commuters’ destination choices. The impact of these factors was found to vary significantly depending on the scale and context, indicating a need for nuanced urban planning approaches. The findings highlight the need for sophisticated urban planning that balances functionality and needs in transit-oriented development, aiming to cater to non-commuters and promote sustainable, vibrant urban spaces.

Source: Land

DOI: 10.3390/land14081619

Authors: Yanan Liu, Hua Du

Institutions: Southwest Jiaotong University, Peking University

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: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137