Geospatial Assessment of Flyover Construction Impacts on Travel Time, Traffic Flow, and Socio-Economic Activities in Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Abstract

Urban flyover construction projects aim to improve mobility and reduce congestion but often trigger short-term disruptions in traffic and socio-economic activities. This study assesses the impacts of the ongoing flyover construction in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, using geospatial analysis and socio-economic surveys. Travel time data, traffic counts, GPS coordinates, and questionnaires were analyzed with ArcGIS tools to evaluate alternative routes and congestion hotspots. Findings reveal that secondary roads, which dominate Ile-Ife’s network, constituted the dominant component of the road network through which diverted traffic was distributed. The Mayfair–Sabo and Lagere–Ooni Palace corridors recorded the highest congestion indices (92% and 83%), underscoring severe peak-hour disruptions. Socio-economic analysis highlighted reduced business patronage, accessibility challenges, and increased transport costs. The study recommends integrating GIS-based monitoring with strategic traffic management and community engagement to mitigate short-term disruptions while ensuring long-term infrastructural resilience.