Assessing the level of pedestrian traffic services in cities

Introduction. Methods for creating an effective pedestrian infrastructure should ensure the safety of pedestrian movement, as well as the quality of movement, especially in difficult terrain. Three main components of pedestrian movement need to be considered: the characteristics of the pedestrian route, the characteristics of the pedestrian flow, and the characteristics of vehicular traffic on the carriageway. Typically, the quality of the street and pavement network is assessed on a level of service (LOS) basis. Materials and methods. The evaluation system has three blocks, according to which the studied criteria are classified. The value of each block is selected on the basis of a sociological survey and previous studies. The methodology is based on criteria that are classified in each group according to their significance. Numerical values of pedestrian friendliness levels are presented. The proposed model is based not only on qualitative, but also on a number of quantitative criteria of traffic conditions on the pavement, which excludes the subjective opinion of researchers. Results. The results of the study confirm that qualitative characteristics are determinant for assessing the level of pedestrian convenience despite different pedestrian and vehicular traffic volumes. Discussion. The use of both quantitative and qualitative criteria makes it possible to expect an assessment of the real conditions of pedestrian traffic in mountainous areas. It is important to take into account three groups of criteria characterising the geometric features of the pedestrian path, the features of the pedestrian flow and the conditions of car traffic on the carriageway near the pedestrian pavement. Conclusion. Studies have shown that not only quantitative characteristics but also qualitative characteristics need to be considered when determining the quality of pedestrian services. Suggestions for practical applications and directions for future research. The research may be useful in justifying the level of pedestrian amenity in mountainous areas and is recommended for consideration in planning and design.