Development of a GIS-based walking route planner with integrated comfort walkability parameters

Walking is a simple physical activity that is available to almost everyone and effective in reducing pollution, saving resources, and enhancing the general health of the population. Previous research has revealed the need to produce a WI that takes into account real-time comfort conditions. The objective of this study was to design a GIS-based algorithm that automated real time and customized WI computation and proposed a comfortable walking route using these inputs. Two comfort factors were considered; shaded areas and temperature. To this end, we devised a novel method for projecting shadows on the ground and a new way of creating a network of sidewalk routes. We designed an algorithm that successfully computed WI values which took the user's comfort preferences into account. These values were then used to create the most comfortable route for the user to take along the sidewalks, in line with real-time weather conditions. Key findings unfold in two directions; firstly, GIS functions are enriched by the methods developed for creating a pedestrian network along sidewalks and road crossings, and for calculating the shadows cast by adjacent buildings. Secondly, the proposed algorithm constitutes a significant step forward in the development of a route planner that incorporates personalized walking comfort parameters based on real-time data. This in turn could potentially increase the frequency and duration of walks, thereby improving the general health of the population. Validation was based on an assessment of the accuracy of the model in calculating shadows and on the analysis of the routes calculated under different conditions.