Caminhabilidade no Centro de Teresina-PI: diagnóstico da infraestrutura para pedestres

Abstract

Walkability is a fundamental component of urban mobility, as it fosters safe, accessible travel integrated with various modes of transport, while also enhancing the quality of public spaces and urban life. In this context, the commercial center of Teresina (Piauí)—a key historical and economic hub of the capital—has been facing a decline characterized by population loss, reduced commercial activity, and a growing sense of insecurity; these factors compromise the pedestrian experience. Given this scenario, this research aimed to analyze walkability in Teresina’s commercial center by examining urban infrastructure conditions and pedestrian feedback, utilizing indicators from the Walkability Index (iCam) developed by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP Brazil). The study combined objective indicators—derived from the iCam application—with subjective data based on user opinions. The results revealed varied performance across the evaluated indicators. The "Mobility" and "Attractiveness" categories showed the best results, whereas "Road Safety" and "Public Security" recorded the poorest performance, highlighting issues related to crossings, pedestrian infrastructure, and public lighting. Although the iCam classified the area's walkability as "sufficient," pedestrian perception pointed to "insufficient" conditions, underscoring the importance of combining technical indicators with user experience. The study concludes that revitalizing Teresina’s commercial center requires integrated actions to improve urban infrastructure—prioritizing people—as well as measures to strengthen security and enhance public spaces, thereby promoting walkability. As a technical output, an atlas was created featuring thematic maps of the indicators and categories assessed by the iCam; this resource aims to provide the public with accessible information and facilitate understanding of the research findings