Analysis of the influence of urban built environment on pedestrian flow in an intermediate-sized city in the Andes of Ecuador

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Analysis of the influence of urban built environment on pedestrian flow in an intermediate-sized city in the Andes of Ecuador

Hermida, Carla / Cordero, Manuela / Orellana, Daniel

This study explores the potential influence of the urban built environment on pedestrian flow in an intermediate Latin American city, Cuenca-Ecuador. Data from samples of 48 street segments were analyzed to explore how physical and spatial features of streets and sidewalks, as well as land use and occupation conditions influence the number of pedestrians. A quantitative approach was used to model the individual and combined influences of several variables on pedestrian counts using multiple regression models. Results from statistical modeling indicate that variables related to the physical features of the streets, such as sidewalk width, are positively correlated to pedestrian counts, whereas parking space and front setback are negatively correlated. We conclude that streets in our study area are largely inadequate for pedestrians due to their poor design, scarce walking infrastructure, and the prevalence of all sorts of obstacles on the sidewalks. Pedestrians, however, seem to cope with this adverse environment by adopting different strategies. We expect that this study will help city planners design better environments for non-motorized travel in intermediate cities.