A Spatial Analysis of Sustainable Transport in Urban Areas: A Case of CollegeTown in Tallahassee, Florida

Keywords: geographic information systems, pedestrian, cycling, transportation, sustainability, walkability
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

Research shows that a mix of land use types in urban areas is associated with higher rates of pedestrian and bicycle travel. For locations that cater to college students, cities often propose sustainable travel designs near college campuses to promote more equitable travel options for students who may not have access to their own vehicles. In Tallahassee, Florida; the City redesigned Gaines Street from a four lane to a two lane road to expand the sidewalk and bicycle infrastructure. Gaines Street is located in the heart of the Collegetown area serving students attending Florida State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. Over the past decade, rapid development in the area has led to an increase in local traffic congestion. Using Geographic Information Systems, this study evaluates the effectiveness of the sustainable travel redesign by analyzing real estate and traffic data at the parcel level spanning from 2006 to 2019. Preliminary results show that the area has shown a massive shift in land use type and occupancy over the past decade. Though property values have substantially increased, the rate of walkability has shown modest improvements. In terms of policy recommendations, the city should collect additional data concerning the preferences of college students in terms of vehicle parking options and navigable sidewalk infrastructure.