A scoping review on cycling network connectivity and its effects on cycling

Abstract

There is growing recognition of the importance of a well-connected cycling infrastructure. Common connectivity measures apply aggregate area-based metrics, such as the number of streets per transportation analysis zone or census area. However, such measures capture cyclist movement insufficiently, as cyclist movement easily extends beyond areas, and variations in the sizes and shapes of areas lead to inconsistent outcomes. In contrast to area-based connectivity, network connectivity considers the connectivity of the entire cycling network, capturing the continuity or discontinuity of routes. Certain measures can account for other important aspects, such as topology and the relative importance of individual links in large networks. Although previous reviews have covered several aspects of cycling infrastructure, no review has been dedicated to the measures, methods and models applied to assess network connectivity or the impact of increased network connectivity on cycling behaviour. We conduct a scoping review of measures, methods, models, and data sources to assess cycling network connectivity and review associations between network connectivity and travel behaviour. The findings suggest an increase in the number of publications on network connectivity up to 2019, followed by a plateau in the number of studies but with more complex methods. However, that complexity may constitute a barrier to practical implementation. We conclude that empirical verifications regarding the effects of network connectivity on travel behaviour remain a research gap, even in high-cycling countries, with evidence further limited by limited link-level travel data. Future research should also focus on developing more consistent and validated metrics.