Digital Tools to Foster Inclusiveness: Porto’s System of Accessible Itineraries

Miguel Lopes and Fernando Alves
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Miguel Lopes: CITTA—Research Centre for Territory, Transports and Environment, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
Fernando Alves: CITTA—Research Centre for Territory, Transports and Environment, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 11, 1-16

Abstract: The recognition, by public authorities, of the shared nature of urban places and the extent and variety of disabling conditions associated with the emergence of phenomena of social exclusion and a steadily ageing population has motivated the creation of new legislation and strategic tools under the umbrella of inclusive design and accessibility for all. This study aims to show how the use of a new interactive accessibility instrument—the System of Accessible Itineraries (SIA)—can help decision-makers, municipality services and citizens to develop pedestrian-friendly networks in their cities. An in loco analysis of the main features, weaknesses, and potential of public spaces was undertaken within a selected survey area in the city of Porto, with the aim of improving the inclusiveness of public spaces. The integration of several concerns and regulations, pertaining to inclusiveness in the design of public spaces, into an easy-to-understand summary specific to this territory constitutes an important first step towards changing the existing paradigm. Apart from the inherent advantages to citizens with reduced mobility, the SIA also has the ability to inform urban planners concerning areas in need of intervention, prioritizing the execution of corrective actions within the public space. Additionally, due to the morphological similarity of the consolidated urban fabric of most Portuguese and European cities, the adopted interactive framework also reveals a considerable potential for comprehensive replication in many city centres, reducing the physical barriers, in a more integrative land strategy.

Keywords: accessibility planning; interactive digital tool; inclusive urban design; public space (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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