Evaluating place-based accessibility using space-time utility perspective

Abstract

The conventional static place-based accessibility measures are commonly used in practice for evaluation of transport network performance. However, this conventional approach have often been criticized for ignoring the dynamics in human space-time behaviours and urban environments. In this study, dynamic place-based accessibility measures are proposed to extend the conventional place-based measures by combining the merits of the place-based and space-time utility-based approaches. In this new approach, the accessibility of a place within the study area can be evaluated by the space-time utility approach in terms of activity duration, travel time and facility attractiveness. The individual choice behaviours amongst multiple alternatives are explicitly considered in the placebased accessibility evaluation. To demonstrate the implementation and applicability of the proposed place-based accessibility measures, a comprehensive case study is carried out in Wuhan which is one of the fast-growing mega cities in China.