Evolution of Urban Accessibility in Manizales, Colombia, 2010 – 2017

Objetives: The main target of this research is to assess the evolution of urban accessibility offered by the transport infrastructure network of the city of Manizales, Colombia, between the years 2010 and 2017. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The research methodology addressed includes the development of 4 phases: i) updating of the transport infrastructure network, where two scenarios were analyzed, the transport network for years 2010 and 2017; ii) calculation of urban accessibility in average global terms, based on isochrone curves obtained from travel time analysis and ordinary Kriging model with linear semivariograma as geostatistical method; iii) calculation of the percentage savings in travel times; and iv) calculation of sociodemographic variables coverage. Findings: Accessibility results in scenario 1 (2010 year) evidences the intention of resolving mobility issues within the city without considering the different peripheral sectors; concluding that high economic income neigborhoods had better accessibility conditions. The infrastructure interventions made by the municipal administration in scenario 2 (2017 year) improve the connection between Central Business District with peripheral sectors. The travel time savings obtained for the peripheral sectors, evidence the inclusion of resident citizenship in the different activities that take place in the city, improving the quality of life. However, this improvement in accessibility is practically limited to the private transport mode, which is contrary to what is sought in terms of sustainability. A middle income neighborhood presents the greatest benefits with a travel time saving of up to 15% in more than 60% of its population. Finally, close to 50% of the population perceives savings of up to 15% relataed with travel times in 2010. Application/Improvements: The methodological approach is a support for urban planning, because it is technical supports that show the impact over population by transport network transformations in travel time terms.