Urban Roads and Non-Motorized Transport: The Barrier Effect and Challenges in the Search for Sustainable Urban Mobility

Abstract

Abstract The aim of this study is to propose actions that can minimize the harmful effects that large-scale urban roads can cause on dislocations through non-motorized transport modes, especially damages related to the Barrier Effect, with the goal on improving the quality of urban environment. For the purposes of theoretical basis, the study makes a literary referencial research on the concepts and solutions in sustainable urban mobility, non motorized transport and the concepts and consequences related to the Barrier Effect, in order to identify the main variables and indicators referring to the themes. From the study of these revisions, it was possible to elaborate a research method, based on the application of opinion polls on the area affected by the Barrier Effect, divided into two stages: i) identification of the factors that generate the Barrier Effect, recommended and proposed by Likert and the use of the Successive Intervals Method; ii) application of the stated preference technique, whose contribution aims to propose solutions in sustainable mobility for non-motorized transport in order to minimize the consequences of the Barrier Effect. The results allow to infer that the Barrier Effect is illustrated in the study area, the difficulty of crossing the lane and the sensation of insecurity are the major influencers of this segregation. There are some causes of this infect but the most significant are the lack of crossing options and the inadequacy of sidewalks and bicycle paths.