Age-driven crossing behavior and walkability: Empirical studies towards simulations

The necessity to guarantee the comfort and safety of the elderly pedestrians while walking and crossing in urban environments can be supported by the use of advanced computer-based simulations. Nowadays, simulation of vehicular and pedestrian traffic is a consolidated application domain, but integrated models considering the interactions between these two entities still lack empirical evidences to produce validated simulations. In this paper we introduce the results of two empirical studies aimed at assessing the walkability degree perceived by the elderly inhabitants of a specific area of the city of Milan, considering the impact of drivers' compliance and level of service. Then, the paper proposes an approach to the modeling of pedestrians and vehicles interactions in the area of a zebra crossing, either signalized or not. The model is subject of further improvement and validation with the outcomes of the empirical studies.