Field observations of factors influencing walking speeds

This study measures pedestrian walking speeds in New Zealand to estimate the influences of mean walking speeds as these concern urban planning and pedestrian facility design. Research was conducted using field observations of walking speeds under different conditions: gradient and urban/rural townships. The data show complex interrelationships between environment, personal characteristics of pedestrian and physical factors. Mean walking speeds between 70-95 m/min are observed. These results do not support the ideal that walking speeds are indicative of pace of life. Rather, walking speeds are proposed to be an indicator of the environment’s “walkability” as walking speeds that closely reflect that of the mean population are key to the successful design of pedestrian facilities.