Urbanization and Environmental Repercussions on Active Transport and Micromodal Facilities

This study examines the effects of environmental factors and urbanization on Non-Motorized Transportation (NMT) infrastructure facilities in Delaware, with a focus on active transportation and micromobility modes. Building upon Phase I's analysis of coastal inundation impacts on NMT facilities using GIS mapping and statistical analysis, Phase II expands the research scope to investigate urbanization phenomena, micro-modal transportation adoption, and climate-related challenges including temperature fluctuations and pluvial flooding. The research methodology incorporates public perception surveys and collaborative data collection with the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), and Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization (WILMAPCO). This comprehensive assessment aims to evaluate the resilience and adaptability of NMT infrastructure against environmental stressors while accounting for evolving urban mobility patterns and micromobility integration.

The main outcomes of this research project will be a solid understanding supported with data and mathematical analyses on the impacts of coastal inundation (which was performed during Phase-I of this project), temperature fluctuations, and pluvial flooding on NMT and micro-modal facilities.  The environmental impacts of the urbanization phenomenon on such facilities will be documented.  The main impact that this project will have will be on planners and engineers who are in charge of such facilities in government and private companies.  Mitigation strategies should be developed to proactively prevent the major loss of such facilities.  Funding at the federal, state and local levels should be dedicated to the prevention of loss and preservation of these important facilities.