Methodology for evaluating sidewalk based on continuous pedestrian movement on the sidewalk segment − A case study of Kochi city

Abstract

A supportive environment can be achieved at the urban or community level when pedestrians navigate their surroundings easily. Every journey begins and concludes with walking; it is crucial to prioritise the infrastructure that enables smooth pedestrian movement. t is necessary to assess current pedestrian facilities and implement enhancements based on uninterrupted pedestrian flow to ensure adequate infrastructure. The methodologies outlined in the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) and the Indian Road Congress (IRC) serve as guidelines for sidewalk assessment. This paper evaluates the relevance of evaluating the sidewalks based on continuous pedestrian movement (CpM) through a live case study in the urban setting of Ernakulam, Kerala, India and undertaking a thorough analysis to identify the drawbacks/shortcomings of the existing methodology in assessing the pedestrian level of service (PLOS) and quality of service (QoS). Our objective is to improve the current evaluation methodology by developing a new approach that addresses the various factors contributing to delays in pedestrian movement, which lead to conflicts on the sidewalk, based on Continuous Pedestrian Movement (CpM). This research highlights the inadequacies of the existing evaluation methodology but also proposes new assessment techniques adapted for any context with all types of delay except for snowfall areas. The study also evaluates the selected streets for the new methodology in understanding pedestrian sidewalks. Experts validated the proposed study methodology. Help the developers and planners efficiently and effectively determine the condition of existing sidewalk facilities to help them improve them if needed for all pedestrian users, especially vulnerable pedestrians.