EngD - Developing an operational assessment method for cyclist-pedestrian shared paths with UCL and Sustrans

Project Partner: Sustrans

PROJECT BACKGROUND
Cycling contributes to the improvement of the health of people and makes our society less dependent on cars (and oil), thereby enhancing its sustainability. In fact, many local governments in the UK and abroad set cycling as a key mode to promote in their transport plans. High quality paths away from the road and alongside busy roads are key components of a safe cycle network, and in many situations these will be shared between cyclists and pedestrians. However, there is no established method to evaluate the operation of shared use paths and little guidance on the appropriate path width for the expected level of use; existing research has considered the cyclists’ viewpoint only or ignored the interaction between pedestrians and cyclists. A new comprehensive tool is necessary to assess the suitability of a path for shared use, in which the quality of the provision for each type of user is considered.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:
Drawing on the professional and academic expertise of Sustrans (cycling and walking) and UCL (walking), the aim of this project is to develop a tool for the operational assessment of paths for shared use by cyclists and pedestrians. The outcomes of the project will be

• An index which represents the usability (i.e. safety and comfort of pedestrians and cyclists. The interaction between them is also considered). The index value for a path will be calculated from the usage of the path (e.g. numbers of pedestrians and cyclists, type of journeys being made, use by groups, time of day) and the environmental characteristics of the path (e.g. width, segregation, type of location).
• A computational tool for calculation of index values

STUDENT BACKGROUND
A graduate with a good degree (2i or better). A postgraduate degree (e.g. a Master) in a relevant subject, such as Transport, Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, or Urban Geography, is desirable. Experience of quantitative analysis would be an advantage. A strong interest in the promotion of sustainable transport is essential.

CLOSING DATE: The closing date for applications is 5pm on 7th June 2012. Interviews will be held later in June 2012. Please upload a cover letter and CV indicating how you meet the criteria - demonstrating your passion for the research area.

APPLY ONLINE: Visit our website for further information on how to apply: http://engd-usar.cege.ucl.ac.uk/vacancies/#26