A Methodology for Generating Service Areas That Accounts for Linear Barriers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to modify an algorithm for mapping service areas, also known as access areas. The algorithm is widely applied in network analyses. Service areas are generated based on features such as road networks and base points representing selected objects or facilities. Spatial barriers in the space between road segments are not taken into account in the process of generating service areas. Such barriers include railway lines and rivers. In this study, a methodology for generating service areas that accounts for spatial barriers was proposed by designing a dedicated tool in the ModelBuilder application in ArcGIS (ESRI) software. The ModelBuilder application has limited functionality, and the developed algorithm had to be modified. The modified algorithm was verified based on spatial data from four cities. The results produced by standard analytical methods were compared with the results generated by the modified algorithm. The study demonstrated that spatial barriers decrease the size of service areas. The modified algorithm generates more reliable results than standard methods.