Influence of Urban Park Pathway Features on the Density and Intensity of Walking and Running Activities: A Case Study of Shanghai City

Junqi Chen, Zheng Tao, Wenrui Wu, Ling Wang and Dan Chen ()
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Junqi Chen: Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
Zheng Tao: Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
Wenrui Wu: Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
Ling Wang: Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
Dan Chen: Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China

Land, 2024, vol. 13, issue 2, 1-25

Abstract: Walking and running activities (W&RAs), encompassing strolling, slow walking, brisk walking, jogging, and running, hold significant importance as popular forms of exercise within urban parks. Recognized for their efficacy in promoting public health and preventing chronic diseases, understanding the nuanced impact of pathway features on W&RAs is crucial for advancing health-centric urban park planning. Based on extensive, high-frequency field observation data, we utilize multiple OLS regression models and univariate OLS regression models to investigate the relationship between urban park pathway features and variations in W&RAs, specifically examining activity density and intensity. Subsequently, we propose corresponding pathway optimization strategies. Our findings highlight the primary determinants, with vegetation coverage ratio, path type, and security facility density influencing activity density; and control value, time required to reach the nearest entrance, and pavement type influencing activity intensity. Significantly, increased vegetation coverage enhances density, while interconnected spaces and improved accessibility elevate intensity. In conclusion, our study delineates key features that merit prioritization, specifies their optimal ranges and proposes optimization design strategies for urban park pathways. By shedding light on these considerations, our research contributes valuable insights to the realm of health-oriented urban park planning and design.

Keywords: urban park; walking and running activities; field observation; activity density; activity intensity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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