The role of perceived and objective accessibility in shaping walking behavior: Insights from mid-sized Spanish cities

Abstract

Understanding the relationship between perceived and objective accessibility is critical for promoting urban mobility. This study explores the relationship between perceived and objective accessibility in shaping pedestrian behavior within mid-sized Spanish cities characterized by high activity density. Using perceived proximity as a proxy for accessibility, the study evaluates how these two measures influence travel mode choices across various trip purposes. The results suggest that perceived accessibility mediates the relationship between objective accessibility and walking decisions particularly for activities like restaurants and entertainment. Moreover, the alignment between perceived and objective accessibility varies by activity type, with stronger correlations observed in high-accessibility contexts. These findings underscore the importance of integrating subjective perceptions with objective measures when designing interventions aimed at promoting active transportation, such as walking. By addressing psychological and experiential dimensions of accessibility alongside conventional spatial metrics, this study provides valuable guidance for urban planners and policymakers to enhance sustainable transportation systems.