Description

The Systematic Pedestrian and Cycling Environmental Scan Instrument (SPACES) is a tool designed to assess the environment for pedestrians and cyclists. It is used for the systematic recording of the physical characteristics of the urban environment that affect walking or cycling. The assessment includes features such as the quality of sidewalks, bike lanes, traffic safety, accessibility, and the availability of related infrastructure.

Analysis and Use of Data

The analysis of data collected from SPACES allows for the investigation of factors influencing pedestrian and cyclist mobility in an environment. The stages of analysis include:

Data Collection: Recording the physical characteristics of the area through on-site observation.

Statistical Analysis:Descriptive Statistics: Means, frequencies, and distributions of environmental features.

Correlations: Investigating relationships between environmental characteristics and walking or cycling use.

Regression Analysis: Estimating the impact of specific factors (e.g., sidewalk quality) on the frequency of travel.

Use:Policy Planning: Authorities can use the data to develop policies and interventions that promote walking and cycling.

Intervention Evaluation: The data allow for the assessment of the impact of infrastructure interventions.

Objective

The objective of SPACES is to provide a systematic tool for assessing the urban environment to improve infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists. The aim is to enhance safety, accessibility, and the attractiveness of the environment to promote active travel (e.g., walking, cycling).

Calibration

The calibration of SPACES involves adjusting the tool for different environments and populations. This includes:

Validation: Ensuring the reliability and validity of the tool in different geographical areas.

Adjustments: Modifying questionnaires or recording categories to suit local conditions.

Environmental Differentiation: Adapting the tool for urban or rural environments with different infrastructure needs.

Bibliography

Pikora, T., Bull, F., Jamrozik, K., Knuiman, M., Giles-Corti, B., & Donovan, R. (2002). Developing a reliable audit instrument to measure the physical environment for physical activity: The SPACES instrument. Preventive Medicine, 35(2), 114-122.

Giles-Corti, B., & Donovan, R. J. (2003). The relative influence of individual, social and physical environment determinants of physical activity. Social Science & Medicine, 54(12), 1793-1812.

Saelens, B. E., Sallis, J. F., & Frank, L. D. (2003). Environmental correlates of walking and cycling: Findings from the transportation, urban design, and planning literatures. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 25(2), 80-91.