A Multi-Objective Optimization of Physical Activity Spaces

Abstract

Optimizing the location of physical activity spaces (PAS) to ensure health, equity and efficiency has long been an important issue in urban planning. Given the health benefits of urban green spaces (UGS), taking Gongshu District in Hangzhou as a case, we examine the issue of where such PAS should be located to optimize three objectives: (1) minimize the distance between PAS and UGS; (2) maximize the accessibility of PAS and (3) maximize the population that falls within the coverage range. This study develops a multi-objective optimization of physical activity spaces model (MOPAS) based upon multi-objective particle swarm optimization to yield a set of non-dominated Pareto optimum solutions that can be used to determine the most practical tradeoffs between the conflicting objectives. It compares the advantages and disadvantages of the Pareto solutions and evaluates the construction situation of locations and the implementation feasibility. Decision-makers can choose the best solution according to subjective preferences and objective conditions. The MOPSO holds great promise for improving the location optimization of PAS and the methods applied can be adapted to support multi-objective optimization of facilities in urban planning globally.