RESEARCH ARTICLE
Evaluating the Current State of Pedestrian Facilities in Peri-Urban and Urban Areas: A Case Study of Pietermaritzburg City
Wealthy Tsembile Maseko1, Jacob Adedayo Adedeji1, *, Ndakhona Bashingi2, James Honiball3
Article Information
Identifiers and Pagination:
Year: 2024Volume: 18
E-location ID: e26671212268070
Publisher ID: e26671212268070
DOI: 10.2174/0126671212268070240402062351
Article History:
Received Date: 13/11/2023Revision Received Date: 31/01/2024
Acceptance Date: 21/02/2024
Electronic publication date: 26/04/2024
Collection year: 2024
open-access license:
Abstract
Background
Pedestrian infrastructure is pivotal for advancing the movement of nonmotorized road users and plays a transformative role in transitioning toward sustainable transportation, especially in rural territories influenced by urban dynamics and interconnected by daily commuter flows. Both walking and cycling stand out as paramount sustainable transport means, offering substantial health and environmental benefits, including reduced noise and air pollution. Multiple factors, such as convenience, safety, accessibility, service cost, flexibility, and the quality of pedestrian pathways, shape individuals' propensity to walk. Notably, in peri-urban contexts, the cost of service becomes a significant determinant, as a notable proportion of the population earns minimal wages or faces unemployment.
Objective
This study sought to examine the current state of pedestrian walkways within Pietermaritzburg and surrounding areas, through which the accessibility, availability, and quality of these facilities were assessed. The study has suggested possible solutions to address the challenges faced by pedestrians.
Methods
By conducting semi-structured interviews and leveraging ArcGIS mapping utilities, this research has delineated the existing scenario and offered an initial redesign tailored to pedestrian requirements.
Results
The data have starkly revealed pervasive inadequacies in the existing pedestrian infrastructure. The functionality and safety of current amenities have been manifestly undermined by these shortcomings. The continuing use of these dilapidated facilities may pose alarming threats not only to pedestrians, but also to other road users.