Accessibility routing model for the safe navigation of vulnerable road users in urban environments

• Multicriteria optimisation algorithms developed to represent the real environment. • The model reveals shortest accessible paths for the safe navigation of 3 VRU groups. • Model was evaluated in a suburban study area, including points of interest for residents and visitors. • 82 % of footways are accessible for physically able but only 7 % for physically impaired pedestrians. • A user-friendly mobile application displays the model outputs to end users and stakeholders. Ensuring equitable access to urban environments is essential for inclusive cities. This study presents the development of an Accessibility Routing Model that improves navigation for physically able, mobility impaired, and visually impaired pedestrians. Unlike previous research that focused on footway width and slope to evaluate accessibility, this study, through an optimisation model, integrates key accessibility criteria, such as footway width, footway slope, kerb design, tactile paving, and the presence of obstacles. Based on extensive audits conducted in the municipality of Penteli (Athens), data were collected from over 400 locations, and accessibility maps were produced for each user group. The routing algorithm calculates the shortest accessible path or, if necessary, an alternative path with minimal violations of accessibility standards. A mobile application was developed to deliver real-time route suggestions tailored to users’ abilities. The paper highlights gaps in urban design and emphasizes the urgent need for improvements to foster independence and social inclusion for vulnerable road users. Keywords: accessibility mapping; accessibility routing model; navigation; inclusivity; mobility impaired pedestrians; visually impaired pedestrians.