How urban form affects walkable access opportunities to local parks in Jeddah city
Abstract This study investigates the relationship between urban form and walkable access to local parks in three districts of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Despite the significant investment in local park development in Jeddah districts, many residents rely on private vehicles for park access, which hinders...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Springer
2025-04-01
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| Series: | Discover Cities |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1007/s44327-025-00082-2 |
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| Summary: | Abstract This study investigates the relationship between urban form and walkable access to local parks in three districts of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Despite the significant investment in local park development in Jeddah districts, many residents rely on private vehicles for park access, which hinders the opportunities of walking to the park and promotes a healthy lifestyle and sustainable urban development. This study supports the morphological theory that urban form shapes the physical environment and affects pedestrian behavior. Using GIS analysis, the study examined the impact of park distribution, block permeability, and street connectivity on walkable access in three districts. The study found considerable disparities in walkable access across the three districts associated with variations in urban form parameters. It provides empirical evidence that urban form characterized by isolated and unequally distributed parks, impermeable blocks, and poorly connected streets, whether all or part of those characteristics are present, affects walkable access to local parks. The study's findings provide valuable data to policymakers and urban planners to prioritize walkability through strategies such as improving park distribution, enhancing block permeability, and increasing street connectivity. These measures together can contribute to the creation of more pedestrian-friendly and equitable urban environments, promoting physical activity, and reducing car dependency. |
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| ISSN: | 3004-8311 |