The pedestrian and cyclist access variables are ratio measurements that show how much access a community has to safe and low-stress networks of walking and bicycle paths, or a lack thereof. Both of the variables measure the access of these paths specifically for local trips besides daily work commutes. A pedestrian access ratio below 0.8 generally shows that an area’s infrastructure does not allow for much access to direct walking paths to nearby destinations, which can include limitations of indirect paths to destinations, large highways, or lack of sidewalks. A cyclist access ratio below 0.6 for an area can be classified as having infrastructure that does not favor bicycle transportation (such as a lack of bike lanes or separate bike trails).    

These variables are measured by the Caltrans Equity Index (EQI). Historically, communities of color and underserved areas experience more difficulty in access to California’s transportation system due to transportation policy decision-making that amplified inequities (Caltrans, 2022). To identify these disparities, the EQI was made as a screening and evaluation tool to measure transportation and socioeconomic indicators at the census block level. The level of granularity accounts for variance in the indicators that may be lost on larger geographic scales, since these ratios are essentially measuring on a street-by-street basis.

Living within a non-car centered community provides benefits ranging from health and environmental, all the way to social and community benefits. Areas that have more access to walkable or bikeable paths can experience cleaner air from reduced traffic emissions, safer streets, healthier lifestyles from promotion of outdoor activity, and vibrant public spaces (North Capitol Crossroads, 2025). Additionally, cities with less car dependency can experience more social cohesion with democratized transportation infrastructure that is inclusive of all socioeconomic backgrounds. As a densely populated region with a diverse population, understanding transportation access in Los Angeles helps communities identify equitable solutions for improving commutes for Angelenos.  

See also: Traffic Collisions, Commute Mode

Written by Justin Culetu