Walkability index adaptation for remote assessment using street-level imagery

Abstract: Urban public space is a fundamental component of the built environment, yet it remains predominantly shaped by infrastructure for motorized transport, often to the detriment of pedestrian accessibility. Walking, however, contributes significantly to physical and mental well-being, social cohesion, and urban sustainability. In this context, walkability has emerged as a key parameter in planning strategies aimed at reducing traffic congestion, promoting health, and enhancing quality of life. This study presents and validates a novel methodological framework for assessing walkability through remote analysis of street-level imagery (SLI). The method is based on an adaptation of the Walkability Index (iCam, initially developed by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP)) to a virtual environment, utilizing publicly accessible Google Street View imagery. Notably, the index was expanded to include a dedicated Accessibility category, addressing the often-overlooked needs of individuals with disabilities or reduced mobility. The methodology was applied to a pilot area in Salvador, Brazil. The results classified the average walkability condition as “sufficient”, with a composite score of 1.75, and confirmed through field validation (score: 1.86). Categories such as Mobility, Attraction, and Public Safety performed well, while Accessibility and Environmental Quality revealed areas that require targeted intervention. Despite limitations related to image temporality, spatial coverage gaps, licensing constraints associated with proprietary imagery, and subjectivity in interpretation, the proposed framework demonstrates high potential for cost-effective, scalable, and transferable urban diagnostics. It enables broader spatial coverage and supports periodic monitoring of pedestrian infrastructure. The findings provide actionable insights for urban planners, policymakers, and researchers committed to building more inclusive, walkable, and sustainable cities.