Improving intra-urban pedestrian safety in the Lagos Metropolitan area : case study of Lagos Island Central Business District.
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Date
2017
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Abstract
This study investigated ways to improve intra-urban pedestrian safety in the Lagos metropolitan
area. The study aimed to encourage increased pedestrian activity by identifying the practical steps
that would result in significant improvements to pedestrian amenity, safety and linkages within
Lagos Island CBD and the metropolitan area in general.
To achieving these objectives, this study employed the use of scientific research methodologies.
Data were collected in two phases: secondary and primary data sources. Secondary data includes
review of relevant literatures. Quantitative data was gathered, primarily through a field survey
(questionnaire), which proved efficient in gathering contemporary data on traffic and pedestrian
characteristics. This sample size had 95% level of confidence with disproportionate 5% sampling
error. Primary traffic and pedestrian data (including socio-economic and demographic
characteristics, and an origin and destination count, etc.) at an aggregated level. Traffic and
pedestrian datasets from the field study were adjusted by means of normalization, which enabled
amalgamation of these datasets. Data analysis mainly involved statistical methods and the use of
computer technology.
The study’s findings show there has been a significant increase in the number of private cars on
the roads. While the traditional pedestrian system is regarded as a way of life worldwide, in Lagos
Island CBD, walking and pedestrians seem to be regarded as subservient and an inconvenience to
the flow of automobiles. The empirical analysis revealed overdependence on motorization in all
spheres of city life, with significant negative effects on existing road design and the future of
Lagos. The study confirmed that the Lagos metropolitan area’s road network is old, outdated and
dysfunctional, lacks pedestrian space and utilities. This is slowing down city activities and cannot
support the ever-increasing pedestrian population.
The study proposes modern intra-urban pedestrian transportation system and other NMT as an
efficient alternative means of mobility. It notes that one of the most effective ways to reduce
overdependence on motorized transportation is reduce the desire for such and embrace
environmentally acceptable means such as a pedestrian system. Overall, this study seeks to
enhance the quality of life and create a healthier city that is aesthetically balanced and sustainable.
Description
Doctor of Philosophy in Urban and Regional Planning. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 2017.
Keywords
Pedestrian areas Nigeria Lagos., Pedestrian traffic flow Nigeria Lagos., Theses--Urban and regional planning.