Walkable Communities and Walking Accessibility

Abstract

This paper deals with issues on “Walkable Communities” based on walking accessibility in the early-developed area of Tama New Town, Tokyo. Firstly, we introduced an Integrated Walking Accessibility Index (IWAI) and examined the characteristics in its spatial distribution and its relationship with travel behavior of residents, showing that the high level of IWAI can stimulate walking. Secondly, we studied the effectiveness and necessity of measures to improve accessibility level, such as relocation of a neighborhood center and introduction of a new bus service, in an area where IWAI and other indices indicate lower accessibility.