An Assessment of the Walkability of Square Corridors in Developing Countries: A Case Study of Saadatabad, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Walkability is an interdisciplinary concept that is increasingly attracting researchers worldwide. With the advances in transportation technology and the resultant development of automobile-oriented cities, many urban areas have degraded significantly. In many developing countries like Iran, pedestrians often fail to meet international standards in terms of the level of service and spatial attributes. Tehran, the capital of Iran, is among the most polluted cities in the world, primarily because of its heavy vehicular traffic. Nonetheless, limited measures were taken to enhance the quality of pedestrian areas that would stimulate individuals to walk, that is, a green mode of transport. This novel approach is significant for increasing public awareness of the concept of walkability and addressing some issues to the city officials. This study assesses the quality of corridors of two squares in the Saadatabad district. The research methodology involves the combination of an agency policy survey, field observations using the objective method, and subjective analysis, including the direct interviews and the questionnaires filled in the sites. Data is collected using the Global Walkability Index (GWI), which provides a step-by-step guideline for data collection. The walkability score resulting from the objective analysis turned out to be 54, indicating a moderate walkability level, which was consistent with the convenience level, 2 out of 5, derived from the pilot study. Ultimately, the article offers some solutions regarding the identified shortcomings of the selected sites, which also apply to other areas.