Empirical Investigation into the Evaluation Methodology for Transport Interchange Accessibility for Individuals with Special Needs: An In-Depth Analysis of Selected Transport Interchanges in Gdańsk

The manuscript delineates an empirical research methodology for gathering data for the functional characterization of transport interchanges. The adoption of a universal, standardized field research method ensures the feasibility of objective interchange comparisons. The explicated methodology encompasses observational and survey research, yielding both quantitative and qualitative data. The amassed data comprises the count of individuals utilizing integrated interchanges, the tally of individuals embarking and disembarking from each mode of transportation, the count of individuals transitioning at the interchange, and the tally of passengers with special needs. Qualitative data encompasses evaluations of interchanges by individuals with special needs, transportation behavior patterns, motivations, and the origins and destinations of travel. The collated data can also aid the interchange manager in decision-making processes pertinent to the maintenance and development of the interchange. The methodology incorporates initial assumptions, data collection methodologies, tools (such as survey sheets and tables), and data analysis techniques.