Linking walkability and pedestrian crossing safety using simulated urban environments

Walking is the most environmentally sustainable mode of transport, offering wide-ranging physical, mental, and ecological benefits. Yet, pedestrian safety remains a critical concern in urban environments. We examined the relationship between pedestrian crossing behaviour and walkability through two complementary stages. In the first stage, we developed a localised Walkability Index by integrating environmental and street design features, weighted by 52 subject matter experts (SMEs). In the experimental stage, we empirically examined 47 participants for road-crossing decisions under controlled conditions by exposing them to real-world panoramic traffic video scenes in a semi-immersive dome environment. Pedestrians' crossing-performance differences among scenarios were pronounced in missed crossing opportunities and response times, demonstrating walkability effects on pedestrian behaviour and safety. Further, participants rated the street images for perceived pleasantness. Ratings were compatible with the walkability index scores, supporting its internal validity. Our findings suggest that targeted urban design may reduce decision latency and exposure to traffic hazards. We propose a preliminary theoretical model, contextualising how walkability constructs impact pedestrians' decisions within a local road crossing context. This study advances understanding of the built environment's role in shaping pedestrian safety behaviour and strengthens the need for evidence-based urban design policy.