Understanding urban intelligibility and walkability in Isparta: An integrated GIS-Space Syntax analysis
AIN SHAMS ENGINEERING JOURNAL, vol.17, no.8, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 17 Issue: 8
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.asej.2026.104297
- Journal Name: AIN SHAMS ENGINEERING JOURNAL
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, INSPEC, Directory of Open Access Journals, Engineering Source (EBSCO)
- Keywords: GIS, Space syntax, Urban geography, Urban network analysis, Walkability
- Istanbul Kültür University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study evaluates walkability and accessibility in the street network of Isparta in the context of spatial and topographic factors. Space Syntax and GIS techniques were integrated using central street lines derived from OpenStreetMap data. Syntactic metrics such as integration, intelligibility, synergy, and connectivity were calculated in the analysis. Furthermore, slope data was classified according to pedestrian accessibility thresholds, using a digital elevation model. The results indicate that the main arteries in the city center support pedestrian mobility thanks to both low slope and high integration values. Increasing slopes on the southern and eastern perimeters emerged as a key factor limiting accessibility and walkability. The combined use of Space Syntax and. GIS data enabled the identification of not only theoretical accessibility but also physically accessible and userfriendly pedestrian routes. This approach provides a pedestrian-focused, sustainable, and data-driven framework for urban planning and design.