An Examination of Pedestrian Trip Behaviour in Underground Pedestrian Systems

Underground pedestrian systems (UPS) that provide alternative walking options for pedestrians have been implemented in a considerable number of cities across the world. These
systems were found to have markedly improved the convenience and ease of city life in terms of transport, economic activities, and social activities because they appear to be used throughout the day by a large number of pedestrians with different purposes. China has seen continuous UPS development over the past 30 years. However, as a relatively new form of pedestrian systems, usage patterns of UPS remain largely unexplored. In this research, surveys of pedestrians’ trip behaviour related to UPS usage in Shanghai were conducted. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analysed. The research indicates that there are a diversity of users of UPS in terms of gender, age, education level, employment status and occupation, and personal income. Shopping and employment were two main reasons why respondents used the UPS. Subways and commerce are two vital factors related to UPS usage. These factors provide a functional basis for the UPS, and the UPS in turn creates both a catalytic and synergistic relationship that reinforces the performance of these factors.