Conceptual analysis of walking distance to transit: towards a more integrative approach

Abstract

Objective

This article provides an original review to analyse the concept of walking distance and its evolution over time as estrategy for the public transport integration in the urban environments.

Methodology

It has been undertaken a literature review about: the evolution in the different approaches on the concept of walking distance; its implications within the context of different transport modes; the type of measure in use; the distances considered; and the factors linked to walking distance that are taken into account.

Conclusions

The results obtained show how light rail systems and urban bus transit have a greater urban integration potential. These transport modes tend to consider walking distance based on survey systems and considering a high number of factors linked to walking distance. The article concludes making clear the need to incorporate indicators related to the urban environment and the population in the assessment of the accessibility based on walking distance to public transport. This is expected to promote more environmentally integrated transport networks able to better meet the needs of users.

Originality

Despite the long history of town and transport planning, there is still little academic review on the concept of pedestrian distance to public transport and its implications.