Walkability for inclusive cities: A quantitative methodology to address urban inequalities in Ponticelli, a peripheral neighbourhood district of Naples (Italy)

Abstract

Walkability assessments are crucial for fostering inclusive and sustainable cities, yet they often fall short in peripheral neighbourhoods, where inequalities are most pronounced. Traditional models frequently prioritise efficiency metrics, overlooking the qualitative and experiential factors that shape pedestrian behaviour. This article proposes a novel, hybrid methodology to address this gap. Our approach integrates quantitative GIS-based audits with qualitative data from resident surveys to create a more holistic walkability assessment.

The methodology produces two key metrics: a Walkability Index (Wᵢ), which evaluates the quality of pedestrian paths based on weighted factors of safety, comfort, attractiveness, and pleasantness derived from resident perceptions; and a W_i-adjusted Urban Services Accessibility Index (USAI), which measures accessibility to essential services within a 15-min walk, adjusted by the Wᵢ of the routes. Moreover, our method aims at moving beyond a simple link-node analysis by integrating open spaces, such as parks and squares, into the pedestrian network, offering a more comprehensive representation of the urban environment pedestrians experience daily.

Applied to Ponticelli, a peripheral neighbourhood of Naples, Italy, the methodology effectively identifies priority areas for intervention where high population density coincides with poor walkability. The findings offer a replicable framework and operational support tool for policymakers to target investments, supporting the development of more equitable and truly walkable cities.