Walkshed

Definition

A walkshed refers to the area or region that can be traversed by foot from a specific location within a predetermined amount of time. This is typically mapped to depict the accessibility of various public spaces or transportation nodes and indicates how far an average pedestrian, without impairments, can walk given the geographical and infrastructural conditions. It is an invaluable tool in urban planning, helping to improve walkability and reduce reliance on vehicular travel.

What is Walkshed?

Walkshed analysis involves calculating and mapping out the potential walking paths and times from a central point based on various geographic factors, most critically the terrain's slope. This is often executed using Tobler’s hiking function, which considers changes in walking speed in relation to slope, acknowledging that uphill walks slow down progress, while downhill walks can potentially increase the pace. The QGIS Walking Time Plugin facilitates this analysis within a Web GIS environment, allowing planners to dynamically model walking accessibility in urban areas. By utilizing digital elevation data, this tool efficiently calculates walking times over different topographical landscapes, subsequently aiding in the assessment and improvement of urban walkability.

FAQs

What is Tobler’s hiking function?

Tobler’s hiking function is a mathematical model used to calculate the speed of walking over varied terrain, especially considering slopes. It helps in understanding how elevation changes impact walkability and is integral to creating accurate walkshed analyses.

How does the QGIS Walking Time Plugin work?

The QGIS Walking Time Plugin allows users to integrate Tobler’s hiking function into their spatial analyses within QGIS to accurately calculate and visualize walking times and walksheds from a given location, taking into account the terrain slope.

What data is needed for a walkshed analysis?

Essential data for a walkshed analysis includes digital elevation models (DEMs) to determine topography and slope, land cover data to identify footpaths and pedestrian zones, and base maps to provide spatial context.

Why is walkshed important in urban planning?

Walkshed analysis helps urban planners identify areas with good pedestrian accessibility, understand barriers to walkability, and design interventions to create more pedestrian-friendly environments, thereby promoting sustainable urban mobility.