Exploring perceptions of the barrier effect and their associations with travel mode choice and interactions with neighbours in Santiago, Chile

The barrier effect refers to the difficulties experienced by pedestrians in their movements due to transport infrastructures or high traffic volumes and speeds ( physical barriers ), and the consequent creation of unpleasant environments surrounding these infrastructures due to factors such as noise, air pollution and fear of crime ( environmental barriers ). Few studies have addressed environmental barriers or employed indices to measure both physical and environmental barriers. In this cross-sectional study, we used a questionnaire to collect data in Santiago Province, Chile. The main components associated with residents’ perceptions of the barrier effect were determined using factor analysis. Cluster analysis was then applied to develop barrier effect indices based on the factor scores. Finally, we used logistic regression models to estimate relationships between these indices, the choice of active modes, and the frequency of interactions with neighbours. The sample comprised 1812 valid responses. Our findings indicated that perceptions of the barrier effect can be explained by two components: perceptions of vehicular traffic and crossing points (physical barriers) and perceptions of the surroundings of transport infrastructures (environmental barriers). Travelling to local destinations by active modes was more likely among participants who were carers than among those who were employed. For supermarket trips in particular, participants with basic education were more likely to use active modes than those with a university education. Additionally, perceptions of physical barriers were significantly associated with the use of active modes, whereas neither type of perceived barrier was associated with the frequency of interactions with neighbours. This study shows the importance of integrating the perceptions of pedestrians and cyclists into the planning and design of both new and existing transport infrastructures to improve accessibility. Such an approach is relevant for promoting safe and comfortable environments and encouraging the use of active modes for local activities. • The study examined the barrier effect, travel mode, and interactions with neighbours. • Associations were assessed using multivariate logistic regression. • Carers were more likely than employed people to travel locally by active modes. • Interactions with neighbours were not associated with perceptions of the barrier effect.