OBJECTIVE: The footbridge is a vital structure in the road network and a cornerstone among crossing facilities. Yet, it suffers from the low usage by pedestrians as they try to cross the street on the level. This study is aimed to analyse the perceptions of Malaysian pedestrians towards the use of footbridges with the consideration of different factors.
METHOD: The study was carried out by collecting data from the field observation and the questionnaire distribution on the street among the public. The data were statistically analysed by applying the multiple linear regression models and a series of Chi square test.
RESULTS: The study found that the most influential factor cited by pedestrians in decision making of using footbridge is the existence of an escalator. Hurriedness and the fear of heights were significantly associated with choosing not to use the footbridge. Zebra crossing was chosen as the most favourable type of crossing facility by the majority of respondents. Also, installation of fence and barriers was proposed as an effective procedure to prevent jaywalking. For constructing new and efficient footbridges in the future, the study suggested consideration of traffic volume, posted speed limit and the lanes number, as these are the most influential factors to predict the usage rate.
CONCLUSIONS: The study encourages the decision makers and the stakeholders to consider providing escalators for the new footbridges to enhance the safety of the pedestrians.
Language: en
Keywords
footbridge; multiple linear regressions; pedestrian preferences; pedestrian safety; usage rate