Multi- and Intermodal Routing for Realistic Estimation of the X-Minute City: the Case of Cologne

Evaluating the X-Minute City, well known under the name 15-Minute City or 20-Minute City is important for city planners. The proximity paradigm encompassed in the X-Minute City allows for more sustainable urban transportation. Measuring the X-Minute City is typically limited to singular modes, focused on walking. We develop a distance based evaluation method that includes walking, bicycle sharing and public transport. Additionally, we include the cost of travel into the analysis as a measure of equitable access. We then apply this method to the case of Cologne to show the application and generate insights into the fitness of Cologne to the X-Minute City paradigm. The analysis reveals that bicycle sharing is an effective and cheap mode of transportation for lowering travel times, being more affordable than public transport.