ENHANCING PEDESTRIAN SAFETY THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS: A CASE STUDY OF SANG-E SIAH STREET, SHIRAZ

Abstract

Promoting walkability in urban areas has emerged as a critical objective for urban designers worldwide due to its positive impacts on public health, local businesses, and the environment. However, pedestrian safety remains a significant concern, particularly in downtown areas. This study evaluates environmental factors' influence on pedestrian safety, with a specific case study of Sang-e-Siah Street in Shiraz. The research adopts a remote analysis approach utilizing on-site photographs and Google Earth maps to assess the urban environment along the street. The street is divided into three sections to evaluate and compare the environmental factors in each segment. Key indicators considered are land uses, sidewalk and road conditions, accessibility, and other relevant elements evaluated on a three-tier scale: high, medium, and low impact. By examining the environmental factors qualitatively, their impact on pedestrian safety is assessed in each section. The study identifies variations in the significance of each factor across different segments of the street. Some elements exhibit varying degrees of impact, while others demonstrate negligible influence. Through this qualitative comparison, the research aims to present comprehensive findings that enable a better evaluation of the three sections based on observations and reports. The study's outcomes can guide urban planners and policymakers in making informed decisions to improve pedestrian safety and enhance the overall walkability of Sang-e-Siah Street and similar urban corridors.