Enhancing Walkability in Medora: Analyzing Mobile Phone Data to Improve Walkability and Identify Critical Infrastructure Needs for Rapid Growth in Medora, ND
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Abstract
Medora, North Dakota, nestled in the heart of the Badlands. The town of Medora has grown
to be a favorite among travelers looking for a genuine experience because of its distinctive
combination of scenic natural beauty and cultural attractions. Currently, the Theodore Roosevelt
Presidential Library is under construction, with an estimated cost of $300 million. The project aims to create 100s of jobs and anticipates attracting thousands of monthly visitors upon completion. So, the town needs to enhance its walkability, amenities, and infrastructure to maintain the growing number of visitors. As urbanization continues to change the look and feel of cities across the United States, the concept of walkability has gained appeal to support healthier, more environmentally friendly, and vibrant communities.
This research uses mobile phone data i.e. Safe graph data to identify high-potential zones
where most of the visitors are going and spending their time at Medora. This information enables us to pinpoint areas in Medora that are most frequented by tourists and, consequently, in need of infrastructure upgrades to enhance their walkability. The data obtained can then be analyzed by the software Grasshopper to dictate visitor movement patterns, preferences, the most appropriate forms and locations for open areas and development, paths and nodes, stormwater infrastructure and maximize pedestrian movement.
This study proposes a dynamic pedestrian routing model for maximizing efficiencies and
uses when applied to prototypical small cities. The results suggest a new responsive model that
can reduce walking distances between necessary uses, harness path prediction software, minimize disturbance, create safe pedestrian walking trails, and building systems in similar suburban cities. The results of this research offer valuable guidance for urban planners, local authorities, and businesses in Medora seeking to optimize their investments in near future infrastructure development.