Gilbert and Perl (2007) establish how different epochs in human history came with specific “transport revolutions.” Our research suggests that intermodal approaches could constitute an invisible transport planning revolution. Based on a review defining “social” sustainability as it applies to urban passenger transportation, we consider the potential of an intermodal focus to better integrate non-motorized (walking-cycling) and public transportation. We start from the premise that rather than being a primary “mono-mode” such as buses or trains, sustainable transport is best understood as an ecology of modes with specific strengths and complementarities that can be mobilized through planning. Using data from Metropolitan Santiago (Chile), we explore this potential, from a conceptual, mainly social, and spatial perspective. We find that paying more attention to different formats of cycling-public transport integration could significantly improve low-cost alternatives for individual and feeder trips. Moreover, adjusting land use to non-work trip purposes could yield substantial benefits. This approach also offers the possibility of developing relatively simple tools helpful improving the deliberative aspects of participatory planning, thereby increasing buy-in as well as improving health, efficiency, safety and other benefits of sustainable transport.

Shared on 01 apr 2017

Sectores afectados por el corte de agua en Santiago, por Aguas Andinas el 27. Febrero 2017. Razon turbiedades del rio maipo debido a fuertes lluvias en las montañas.

Shared on 27 feb 2017

Sectores afectados por el corte de agua en Santiago, por Aguas Andinas el 27. Febrero 2017. Razon turbiedades del rio maipo debido a fuertes lluvias en las montañas.

Shared on 26 feb 2017

Datos de Encuesta Caracterización Socio Económico - CASEN, Chile, año 2015. Fuente: Ministerio Desarrollo Social.

Shared on 16 nov 2016

Map shoowing the modal share per comuna of Santiago - based on EOD survey data 2012.

Shared on 26 aug 2016