Evaluating place-based accessibility using space-time utility perspective

The conventional static place-based accessibility measures are commonly used in practice for evaluation of transport network performance. However, this conventional approach have often been criticized for ignoring the dynamics in human space-time behaviours and urban environments. In this study, dynamic place-based accessibility measures are proposed to extend the conventional place-based measures by combining the merits of the place-based and space-time utility-based approaches. In this new approach, the accessibility of a place within the study area can be evaluated by the space-time utility approach in terms of activity duration, travel time and facility attractiveness. The individual choice behaviours amongst multiple alternatives are explicitly considered in the place-based accessibility evaluation. To demonstrate the implementation and applicability of the proposed place-based accessibility measures, a comprehensive case study is carried out in Wuhan which is one of the fast-growing mega cities in China.