Walkability Drivers for Sustainable Cities: a Pedestrian Behavior Survey

Abstract

The growth of cities often disordered brings several mobility challenges, both in guaranteeing public transport and creating pedestrian-friendly urban spaces. This paper aims to identify the walkability drivers in urban areas and investigate walkability behavior. The survey was carried out in southern Brazil, with a sample of 439 respondents. Data were subject to factorial analysis, regression analysis, and variance analysis. The analysis revealed four walkability drivers that explain pedestrian behavior: (i) infrastructure, (ii) traffic conditions and behavior, (iii) built and natural environments, and (iv) social relations. The results show that built and natural environments and social relations were the most significant aspects in explaining walkability’s overall perception. Concerning socio-demographic aspects, the study points out that (i) men feel safer than women when walking in the neighborhood; (ii) the presence of trees and attractive places along the street increases the walking behavior of non-sedentary people; and (iii) the perception of the neighborhood’s beauty increases with age. The research provides contributions regarding understanding the interrelated aspects of walkability behavior. Finally, the study offers relevant evidence for social researchers and urban planners by identifying walkability drivers and supporting political and academic debate elements.