A century of evolution of the accessibility concept. (June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Levine, Jonathan
• Is Part Of: Transportation research. Volume 83(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-06
• Subjects: Accessibility -- Mobility -- Proximity -- Positive -- Normative -- Evaluation -- Transportation -- Land use; Transportation -- Research -- Periodicals; Transportation -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; 354.76
• DOI: 10.1016/j.trd.2020.102309
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1361-9209

Abstract

Highlights: The accessibility concept has varied notably along definitional and use-based dimensions. These variations remain present in accessibility discourse today. This history can help advocates of the accessibility shift better articulate their policy agenda. Abstract: The concept of accessibility has acquired numerous meanings along multiple dimensions during the century of its evolution. This essay argues for the salience of two dimensions: application-based and definition-based. In its application, accessibility has incorporated positive and normative dimensions which have varied in prominence over time. In its definition, accessibility has varied between a mode of evaluation incorporating measured mobility and proximity, on the one hand, and a predefined market basket of urbanist improvements to transportation and land use systems, on the other. Advocates of the accessibility shift should emphasize both the measured approach to accessibility and accessibility's normative side.