Benchmarking Spatial Access for Community-Level Accessibility
What is this research about?
The accessibility of public spaces is often studied by looking at either,
- the quality of pedestrian infrastructure along individual sidewalks, trails, street crossings, etc. to facilitate use by pedestrians of all ages and abilities, or
- the proximity of services and amenities from homes and transit – i.e., how far pedestrians need to travel to reach essential destinations.
The PEACH Research Unit of Dalhousie University is conducting a study that combines these perspectives to learn how to assess spatial accessibility that is inclusive of the needs of residents with disabilities.
This research asks,
- What services and amenities are of priority to residents living with disabilities to access close to home?
- How far is too far to travel as a pedestrian to reach these destinations?
- What features in the built environment are necessary in order to be able to navigate safely and efficiently?
To help answer these questions, the research team will be consulting directly with individuals living with all types of disabilities to learn from their experiences, neighbourhood travel, and diverse needs as pedestrians and transit users.
Research Report
The final Findings Report can be viewed and downloaded below in English or French.
Le rapport des résultats peut être consulté et téléchargé ci-dessous en anglais ou en français.
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Interactive Dashboard
This interactive dashboard consolidates all spatial accessibility data collected in the project, allowing users to explore walkable access to key services across multiple communities. It supports evidence-based planning, research, and decision-making.
3D Walkthrough Video
This 3D walkthrough, created using feedback from people with lived experience of disability, visualizes how accessibility standards can come together at the neighbourhood scale, highlighting pedestrian routes, transit stops, and key design elements. It helps identify real-world conflicts and opportunities that aren’t always visible on traditional maps.
*Please note that the video has no sound.