An Accessibility Inventory of Streetscapes in Fort Worth Urban Villages

Keywords: Urban Villages, Mobility, Walkability, Streetscape, Disability, Fort Worth, Accesibility
Session Type: Virtual Poster Abstract
Day: Monday
Session Start / End Time: 2/28/2022 02:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/28/2022 03:20 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 32

Abstract

Urban Villages are small geographic areas zoned for dense, multiple-use development that are, among other goals, intended to be pedestrian-friendly for their residents. Existing research on this topic approaches indexing walkability by incorporating factors including aesthetics, land usage, and city bike stations. The terms ‘walkable’ and ‘pedestrian-friendly’ are often used interchangeably to refer to these areas, but these terms are not synonymous when considering the broad scope of physical ability levels found among pedestrians. The implementation of universal design principles into urban village design can improve the walkability of these spaces for pedestrians with special needs. This project provides insight into the implementation of such principles in designated urban villages in Fort Worth, Texas by conducting an inventory of streetscape features that aid or hinder the ability of pedestrians with disabilities to travel independently. I created a list of streetscape elements that contribute to pedestrian accessibility, then created maps using ArcGIS to show the spatial distribution of accessibility features. I then compared the features of each urban village to determine which are the most disability-friendly. By focusing on different components of the streetscape as well as the pedestrian experience, the results of this project investigate specific issues related to the independent mobility of pedestrians with disabilities.