Identifying optimal locations for street experiments: A digital case study in Bologna

• Developed a novel method combining accessibility (GOAT), walkability (IAPI), and transport (MATSim) to identify optimal locations for street experiments, enhancing urban walkability and accessibility. • Integrated participatory planning data with digital tools, focusing on schools and high-density areas in Bologna. • Identified key areas in Bologna for street interventions, balancing local community needs with objective data, providing a model for other cities to replicate. • The approach enhances sustainable urban development by creating environments that prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and public space redesigns. This paper examines the integration of digital urban planning tools to identify optimal locations for street experiments, considering multiple parameters. A detailed case study in Bologna, Italy, demonstrates the effective use of three primary digital tools: (i) in-depth accessibility analysis, (ii) GIS walkability mapping, and (iii) comprehensive traffic forecasting. Together, these tools strategically identify optimal spots for transformative street experiments. The study outlines the methodology, highlighting specific parameters used to evaluate the urban landscape. This approach demonstrates how digital tools can revolutionize traditional urban planning, offering precise measurements and insightful visualizations of potential outcomes. The Bologna case study vividly illustrates the transformative power of digital technologies in creating pedestrian and cyclist-friendly environments and their crucial role in future urban development. By harnessing digital innovation, cities can achieve sustainable transformations that enhance residents' well-being and quality of life. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the pivotal role of digital innovation in driving sustainable urban development, fostering inclusivity, accessibility, liveability and overall urban vitality.