Estrategias para mejorar el transporte no motorizado, caso: cantón Penipe, provincia de Chimborazo

Abstract

“Strategies to improve non-motorized transport, case: Penipe canton, Chimborazo province” is research whose purpose was to develop sustainable mobility strategies promoting and improving non-motorized transport in the study area. The diagnosis and evaluation of the current situation were determined by applying mobility surveys to the inhabitants of the Penipe canton, collecting information related to mobility patterns, use of non-motorized modes of transport, perspectives, or opinions of the user. Additionally, the use of an observation form contributed to evaluate the current situation of the transport infrastructure (geometric characteristics, current state, type of tread layer, signage, security elements, among other aspects). It was possible to determine that the most common reason for moving into the urban-rural area are work and recreation and 38% of the people walk. Also, 10% ride a bicycle, and a big part of the inhabitants move on foot around 3 to 4 times a day. In turn, the findings reported that 62% of the road network of the Penipe canton is in good condition, and it is made of asphalt and cobblestone. Its average sidewalks width oscillates in 1.44 m, which made it possible to evidence the lack of space for pedestrians. The findings of this research were the basis to develop strategies focused on improving bicycle traffic and accessibility for pedestrians. To conclude, it is necessary to adapt safe spaces for both; pedestrians and cyclists to reduce the use of private vehicles. Finally, it is worth implementing this research for future proposals in the canton.