| Author(s) | Mezyad M. Alterkawi |
| Affiliation | Urban Planning Department, College of Architecture and Planning, King Saud University |
| Title | A Computer Simulation Analysis for the Development of Pedestrian Overpasses on King Fahad Road in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
| Source | Journal of King Saud University. Architecture & Planning. Volume 19, No 2. (2007/1427) |
| Abstract | King Fahad Road, a limited access cross-town expressway running north and south within the city of Riyadh, has a problem with numerous pedestrian crossings on the roadway surface. The problem appears to be particularly acute on the portion of roadway north of Khurais Road. This is a section of roadway severely lacking in facilities to provide for pedestrian crossings. This section of the highway had originally been designed as a typical 80-meter street. Pedestrian overpasses, however, were not adequately provided nor were consideration taken of previous traffic and pedestrian movement patterns. In fact, and because King Fahad Road is designed as an express way, several previously-existing street intersections at grade are now blocked, resulting in inconveniences to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. While the function of the roadway has changed from a major arterial street to a limited access expressway, the needs of pedestrians, in particular, have not changed. Many people in this portion of the highway cross in order to assume commercial activities and in the opposite direction in the afternoon. This results in a significant number of pedestrian crossings taking place continuously. This paper relied on the empirical evidence gathered and the methodology utilized in gathering the data in the study area and at the time described. Data was collected using direct observational techniques in the study area, with the author and three hired junior planners serving as data collectors. The analysis is based on a computer program to simulate the optimum development of pedestrian overpasses locations based on the field-collected data. It confirms the shortage in pedestrian overpasses. |
