Multifaceted associations between built environments and POI visit patterns by trip purposes

This study examines the relationships between built environment features and visit frequencies to Points of Interest (POIs) across different trip purposes in Phoenix, Arizona. Utilizing spatial econometric modeling and GPS-based mobility data, this study reveals distinct and multifaceted associations based on different trip purposes. For instance, higher population and activity density positively associate with increased visit frequencies to POIs across all trip types. Also, while the compactness index does not emerge as a significant factor overall, its negative influence on personal trips suggests that compact urban forms may limit the variety of opportunities for non-essential trips in the car-oriented city. Moreover, greater distances from home are positively correlated with visit frequencies for non-commute trips but negatively associated with commute trips. Interestingly, transit accessibility exhibits a negative relationship with visit frequencies across most trip purposes, with the exception of social trips, for which a positive association is observed. Lastly, population and activity density consistently emerge as the most influential factors affecting visit frequencies. This study contributes to providing empirical evidence on the differential impacts of built environment attributes across trip purposes and offering policy insights for urban and transportation planning aimed at promoting vibrant and sustainable cities.