Framework for the Analysis and Enhancement of the Accessibility of Large-Scale Urban Transit Networks: A Data-Driven Study for the City of Lyon, France

Abstract

Accessibility to a fixed point of interest is a powerful indicator for quantifying the strengths and weaknesses of a multimodal pedestrian and transit network. However, it is difficult to predict the impact on accessibility deriving from the insertion of a new infrastructure and its contribution to the urban landscape. This paper uses graph science and multisource open data to implement a tool for studying accessibility in combination with several network performance indicators. The tool allows determination of whether a transit infrastructure project can be beneficial for its potential users. In this paper, we propose to compute gravity-based accessibility, temporally bounded by an isochrone [Formula: see text]. We assume that the user always favors the shortest route, her rationality conditioned by real-time applications provided by network operators. By the proposed approach, the impacts on accessibility deriving from the construction of a new infrastructure, such as a new transit line, can be effectively quantified and the actors of urban planning can visually evaluate the consequences of their projects to make more informed decisions.