Organizing Public Space for Social Distancing and Modal Complementarity: A Methodology and Application

Abstract

This article develops a methodology to reorganize public space in urban areas. Mixed modal use of the available space approach is proposed to stimulate social distancing. First, the study area is delimited, and an inventory of the geometric characteristics in the available public space is drawn up. Secondly, based on their geometric characteristics, the predominant typology of the cross-sections is identified. Next, new standard cross-sections are proposed. These promote the mixed modal use of public space, considering both the minimum modal dimensions to circulate and the hierarchy of sustainable mobility. In this order, social distancing is prioritized by allocating homogeneous and sufficient space for pedestrian movements. Finally, characterized sections by a mixed modal use are aligned with the vocations of predominant land uses of the urban environment. At this level, accessibility criteria are included both for access to buildings and for safe crossings. Furthermore, key indicators to measure the effect for which the reallocation of public space has in social distancing and mobility terms are defined. The proposed methodology is applied in a historic Central Business District of Mexico (CBD). In this CBD, many people come together to carry out their daily activities. Geographic tools are used to show as social distance improves when the study zone has an intervention. The case studied results show a significant improvement in social distancing, thereby reducing the risk of exposure and contagion during the coronavirus SARS-COV2 pandemic.