LAND USE AND TRANSPORT INTEGRATION: AN AGENDA FOR SEAMLESS TRAVEL

Abstract

Adverse environmental effects of the automobiles have emphasized the need to encourage the use of public transport in the pursuit for sustainable development. Thus, integration of transport and land uses has been adopted to enhance the public transport with the ultimate aim of achieving seamless travel. In view of the greater emphasis for integration, many studies have been carried out to investigate policies on integration of transport and land use from a general perspective. However, not many studies have been carried out on the physical integration of land use and transport. In particular, the recent vertical integration of transport and land use in Singapore represents an excellent development in transport and land use integration. This study seeks to trace the development of land use and transport integration in Singapore. In addition, it attempts to investigate commuters' perception towards the various models of physical integration that have evolved in Singapore. The study shows that vertical integration of transport nodes and vertical integration of transport nodes and developments are preferred over the horizontal model due to its conducive travel environment. Policymakers can thus angle future plans at vertical integration of transport nodes and developments in their agenda for seamless travel. Furthermore, results show that residential development integrated directly above transport nodes and other developments are not well received due to its poor quality of living environment and security. As such, policymakers should reconsider the vertical integration model of residential development and find ways to mitigate the negative effects.