Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a comprehensive master plan to develop a 6,500km network of modern walkways across 160 areas in the emirate. This initiative aims to not only improve pedestrian access and promote soft mobility but also to reduce carbon emissions and enhance the city’s green credentials. The plan includes the construction of 3,300km of new walkways and the rehabilitation of 2,300km of existing pathways by 2040, with an additional 900km of walkways planned beyond that date.
The Dubai Walk master plan also involves the construction of 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses to improve connectivity, as part of an ambitious goal to increase pedestrian and soft mobility from the current 13% to 25% by 2040. The RTA has outlined three types of walkways to be developed: scenic-leisure walkways, city connectivity pathways, and community walkways. These pathways will feature diverse nature settings, including waterfront, green, rural, and urban environments.
The scenic-leisure walkways will showcase the emirate’s natural beauty through a 112km waterfront walkway, a 124km green walkway, a 150km rural walkway, and a 64km urban walkway. The plan emphasizes pedestrian safety, connectivity with existing walkways, and the integration of creative and cultural elements into the infrastructure. Features such as greenery, shaded areas, misting systems, interactive digital screens, art displays, sports and entertainment equipment, rest areas, and commercial spaces will be incorporated into the walkways.
City connectivity pathways will address first- and last-mile requirements in key areas such as Al Rigga, Business Bay, Al Badaa, and Dubai World Trade Center. The RTA’s plan covers 30 areas by 2040 and is designed to promote soft mobility, including the use of bicycles, skates, and scooters. The ultimate goal is to transform Dubai into a pedestrian-friendly city, aligning with the ‘20-minute city’ vision, which aims to provide 80% of residents with access to essential services within a 20-minute commute.
Community walkways will connect residents to local facilities, with Phase 1 focusing on areas such as Al Barsha 2, Al Khawaneej 2, and Al Mizhar 1. The plan for model neighborhoods will expand to cover 50 areas by 2040. The Dubai Walk master plan will also create hubs and plazas at key locations, including Etihad Museum, 2nd of December Street, Al Mamzar, and Mushrif, as well as super blocks in areas like Al Fahidi, Al Quoz, Al Karama, and Abu Hail. Streets such as Jumeirah, Baniyas, Al Khaleej, and Al Muraqqabat will be rehabilitated into green boulevards.
The design guidelines for Dubai Walk include creating continuous and shaded walkways, incorporating wayfinding systems, public art spaces, sustainable lighting, and additional green and rest areas. This holistic approach aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors while promoting sustainable urban development.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
