Journal of Arid Regions Geographic Studies

Journal of Arid Regions Geographic Studies

Examining the role of the physical form of space in the desire to walk in urban neighborhoods (case study: Hossein Bashi neighborhood of Mashhad)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Department of Geography, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
Abstract
Aim: Pedestrianism is a significant concern for urban management in achieving a healthy and sustainable city. This study evaluates pedestrianism in the Hossein Bashi neighborhood, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Mashhad
Materials & Methods: This descriptive-analytical study examines 13 variables across 3 categories based on a conceptual model. The statistical population includes all residents and users of the Hossein Bashi neighborhood. Given the neighborhood's fabric and its division into seven subdivisions, 150 questionnaires were completed by neighborhood residents using cluster sampling. Additionally, field operations were conducted, and data analysis was performed using SPSS and ArcGIS software, along with statistical methods and spatial models, to assess the neighborhood's pedestrian capability.
Finding: The findings indicate that the tendency to walk is directly related to spatial arrangement criteria (excluding depth indicators). The size of the crossings is also directly related to pedestrian traffic if it increases the share of crossings from other users. Conversely, an increase in the length of the crossings and the number of twists and turns decreases the tendency to walk. The width of the crossings has a direct effect on pedestrian desire. Supplementary findings suggest that the evolution of the crossing network in different directions is not a perfect measure of increased willingness to walk.
Conclusion: The results indicated that the form of the streets is not an important criterion in the tendency to be pedestrian-oriented. On the other hand, the development of streets in different geographical directions is not considered an effective criterion in this regard.
Innovation: Physical renovations alone cannot be considered an important criterion for the willingness to walk. This point can be a good basis for future measures in the renovation of old neighborhoods.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 02 August 2025

  • Receive Date 02 February 2025
  • Revise Date 11 May 2025
  • Accept Date 12 May 2025
  • Publish Date 02 August 2025