Accessibility and urban sustainability: Evaluating sidewalk infrastructure in a medium-sized brazilian city
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v15i5.51061Keywords:
Accessibility, Urban sustainability, Walkability, Sidewalks, Social inclusion.Abstract
Urban accessibility is a key component of social sustainability and inclusive mobility. This study aimed to evaluate accessibility and sustainability conditions of sidewalks in selected areas of Fazenda Rio Grande (PR), Brazil, focusing on users with reduced mobility. The methodology included field surveys, photographic records, and technical analysis based on Brazilian standards (NBR 9050:2020 and NBR 16537:2016), as well as the municipal mobility plan. Results revealed recurrent structural failures, including inadequate ramps, discontinuities in tactile paving, obstacles, and lack of maintenance. Although public initiatives toward accessibility were identified, existing deficiencies compromise walkability and user safety. The study concludes that improving sidewalk infrastructure is essential to promote inclusive, safe, and sustainable cities, contributing to urban quality of life and reducing socio-spatial inequalities.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Fabio Augusto Trento, Vinicius Silva Frazão, Jacqueline Maria Lopes Marin, Luan Henrique de Miranda, Thaise Moser Teixeira, Aline Lopes, Santos Henrique Brant Dias, Stephanie Abisag Sáez Meyer Piazza
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