Cycling Route Mapping via Cartography and GIS Techniques

Abstract

Cycling has been embraced as a mode of transportation with numerous health and environmental benefits, yet it is underfunded and needs more priority in many central cities in Malaysia. Despite a will from the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) to enhance sustainable transport, cycling requires being accorded its due position in urban areas. It implies the presence of bottlenecks and barriers in the cycle route map. A cycling or bike map is designed specifically for cyclists addressed in the city using cartography and Geographical Information System (GIS) techniques. Four stages of operations were applied in the study, including a preliminary study, data collection, data processing and data visualization. The first result identified the significant criteria and features of the cycling route map since there are no specific features or concepts in designing the ideal cycling route map of the city. The criteria include the essential elements of cartography, the ideal design of cartography content and principle and relevant features in a standard cycling map. A proposed cycling route map was created with significant features such as route routes, route information, point of interest, land use and sign, and designated cycle route. The map testing revealed that the proposed map was practical since respondents had positive feedback. Having a suitable cycling map will benefit the cyclist to become one of the modes of transportation in the city.