Walkability research: concept, methods and a critical review of post-socialist studies

Abstract

The history during which a post-socialist urban environment was shaped was not pedestrian-friendly but focused on automobilization primarily. Therefore, it is important to study, measure and improve urban pedestrian areas. The main aim of this paper is to open the discussion regarding selected theories and approaches to measuring and quantifying this phenomenon, as well as to provide a bibliometric analysis and critical review of scientific records from the post-socialist countries, where the walkability concept has not yet been well-established. In conclusion, a future research agenda based on the post-socialist research limitations is proposed. The results of walkability studies can be the basis for municipal representatives to create a healthy transport environment.