Gender disparities in defining factors of pedestrian level of service of sidewalks

The present study delves into the potential impact of gender on critical factors that define Pedestrian Level of Service (PLOS) of sidewalks. Through an in-depth personal interview survey among 502 respondents, consisting of 240 males and 262 females, the variations in perception of male and female pedestrians concerning a spectrum of built environment factors influencing sidewalk quality were assessed. Two structural equation models have been separately developed for male respondents and female respondents. The study found that there is a substantial gender-based disparities in the effect of diverse factors that define PLOS of sidewalks. Especially, the factor ‘Security’ found to be an important factor shaping pedestrians’ satisfaction with the sidewalk quality for both genders. The results found that women pedestrians’ have notably higher satisfaction across all PLOS factors compared to their male counterparts, offering a promising avenue for improving sidewalk environment. Also, it would help planners in identifying the factors that impact the pedestrians’ satisfaction on PLOS of sidewalks based on gender. This study helps urban planners in identifying factors with gender specific impacts on pedestrians’ satisfaction with PLOS for sidewalks. It will thus help in giving emphasis on improvement of those factors for women pedestrians which will ensure their active participation in social activities. By prioritising improvements tailored to women pedestrians’ needs, the present study holds potential to promote their engagement in social activities.