Enhancing the Streetscape of Sidewalks for Sustainability and Liveability in Shared Streets

Abstract

The urgent call for resilient, sustainable cities took place in promoting sustainable development to be achieved by 2030, especially in Egypt’s agenda, and meeting users’ needs through safe and affordable public spaces and inclusive and sustainable urbanization. Open public spaces in sustainable cities act as a source for enhancing interaction between users, including city and neighborhood streets and sidewalks, squares, parks, and other shared spaces such as private parks, in addition to enhancing well-being and good quality of life. In the last couple of years, the use of vehicles and transportation has become a burden for users to use sidewalks, access open spaces, and access outdoor areas, which need an urgent response by decision-makers and stakeholders. As a result, new approaches are currently taking place as a scheme for reforming sidewalks, especially in shared streets, in order to act as a public space for interaction, commuting, and new activities to increase its liveability. Sidewalks act as a place for safe socialization, communication, and commuting through walking and cycling. The research methodology focuses on three stages, including theoretical, analytical, and empirical studies. The theoretical phase presents a theoretical background for the topic. The analytical phase focuses on global cases and guidelines. The empirical phase tests the applicability of the suggested guidelines derived from the theoretical and analytical phases. Finally, the research’s main objective is to examine the applicability of achieving the liveability and sustainability of sidewalks in shared streets in cities as a quick and effective public space for wellness that can be adopted in megacities, with special reference to the Al-Khalifa neighborhood in Egypt.