New technologies, same old challenges: City of Belgrade public transport coverage analysis

Abstract

This paper aims to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to reconstruct the existing and conduct a new alternative spatial analysis of the coverage of Belgrade's built-up area by public transport. According to the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan of the City of Belgrade (SUMP), the built-up area of Belgrade is almost entirely covered by the public transport network. However, the methodology on which this conclusion is based is not presented in detail, which raises questions about the reliability of the reported results. A high level of public transport coverage should ensure access to existing facilities and represent a key factor in the cohesive spatial development of the city. In that context, incomplete or methodologically unfounded assessments may lead to inadequately formulated planning goals and decisions, which in turn contribute to deepening the gap in access to public services along the center-periphery axis. The methodology of the paper is based on the application of GIS in an effort to reconstruct the original analysis conducted within the SUMP, as well as to develop a new, alternative coverage analysis. In order to ensure continuity and comparability of results, both analyses are based on the same criteria predefined in the SUMP. The results of the reconstructed and the new analysis will be presented and evaluated comparatively, with the aim of identifying methodological differences and their impact on the representation of accessibility levels. This paper seeks to provide insight into the possibilities of applying Geographic Information Systems in spatial analysis and spatial and urban planning processes. Precise mapping and analysis of deficiencies in the components of cohesive spatial development are of crucial importance.