International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

International Journal of Urban Management and Energy Sustainability

Investigating the effect of physical structure on the behavior of pedestrians (Case Study: Bagh-e-Feyz neighborhood)

Document Type : Case Study

Authors
1 Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Urban Planning, Ayatollah Amoly Branch, Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
3 Professor, Management and Innovation Research Center, Ayatollah Amoly Branch, Azad University, Amol, Iran
Abstract
Urban environments need to be designed to meet the needs of diverse groups, especially pedestrians. The Bagh-e-Feyz neighborhood faces issues such as narrow sidewalks, limited green spaces, and security concerns, which have progressively disrupted pedestrian behavior patterns. This study aims to explain the impact of the physical-spatial structure on pedestrian behavior patterns in the Bagh-e-Feyz neighborhood and to propose planning principles for improving these patterns. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, this applied research draws on theoretical foundations and relevant case studies to establish a framework for analysis. SPSS software and trained observer methods were employed to test the research question. Findings indicate that several indicators require improvement, including the separation of vehicular and pedestrian routes, the creation of dynamic neighborhood units along urban streets, the preservation of identity elements and historical buildings, attention to local materials, the enhancement of significant neighborhood landmarks, support for group activities, focus on urban walls and symbols, and ensuring perceptible physical diversity for all movement systems. This research provides recommendations for restructuring physical environments to enhance pedestrian experience and offers insights for future studies on the impact of urban design on pedestrian behavior, highlighting the necessity of pedestrian-centered urban planning.

Highlights

  • This study explains how the physical-spatial structure influences pedestrian behavior patterns in the Bagh-e-Feyz neighborhood and proposes planning principles to improve these patterns.
  • The findings indicate that several indicators require improvement, including the separation of vehicular and pedestrian routes, the creation of dynamic neighborhood units along urban streets, and the preservation of identity elements and historical buildings.
  • Attention to local materials, the enhancement of significant neighborhood landmarks, and support for group activities are other key recommendations that can improve the pedestrian experience.
  • The study provides recommendations for restructuring physical environments to enhance pedestrian experience and offers insights for future research on the impact of urban design on pedestrian behavior, emphasizing pedestrian-centered urban planning.

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Volume 6, Issue 2 - Serial Number 2
Spring 2025
Pages 265-280

  • Receive Date 29 July 2024
  • Revise Date 20 November 2024
  • Accept Date 20 April 2025