Using a Space Syntax Approach to Enhance Pedestrians’ Accessibility and Safety in the Historic City of George Town, Penang

A space syntax analysis of George Town, Penangreveals critical structural inefficiencies in its pedestrian network, including poor connectivity, suboptimal integration, and safety hazards such as limited zebra crossings. The study identifies concentrated pedestrian flows along two-way roads and inadequate access to key attractions, exacerbated by the unique 'five-foot way' shophouse design adapted to Malaysia's climate. Using space syntax indicators like intelligibility and choice, researchers propose targeted interventions, including strategic infrastructure upgrades and zebra-crossing installations, to enhance accessibility and safety in this historic urban landscape. This approach offers a novel method for optimizing pedestrian environments in Southeast Asian heritage cities.

Fan, M., Hedayati Marzbali, M., Abdullah, A., & Maghsoodi Tilaki, M. J. (2024). Using a Space Syntax Approach to Enhance Pedestrians’ Accessibility and Safety in the Historic City of George Town, Penang. Urban Science, 8(1), 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci8010006