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CONNECTIVITY IN RURAL AREAS: A DATA-INFORMED POLICY FOR PROMOTING ACTIVE MOBILITY AND TOURISM IN PROTECTED AREA
Abstract
The study presents a data-driven approach to support sustainable tourism in Gauja National Park, Latvia, as a case study, by analysing sustainable transport, especially active mobility. While the benefits of active mobility are well documented, its potential in rural protected areas, such as Gauja National Park, is often overlooked. This study integrates multiple datasets, including Strava user-tracking data, automated physical passers counters, and existing infrastructure data, to create a robust Geographic Information System (GIS) model for evidence-based policy planning. The research objectives focus on evaluating the connectivity and usage of active transportation networks. The study leverages anonymised, aggregated Strava user-tracking data to reveal the most popular cycling and hiking routes and hotspots within the park, along with actual travel patterns and latent demand that traditional planning methods often miss. This is supplemented with data from physical counters, providing ground-truth usage measurements for specific locations, such as Gutman-s Cave and Erglu Cliffs. Using the GIS tool, the analysis is performed on data against existing infrastructure and key criteria, such as elevation, proximity to points of interest, and distance from public transport stops. The findings from the case study demonstrate how an integrated dataset can provide evidence for the strategic development of active mobility policies for the rural area's management. The framework identifies key areas for infrastructure investment, such as improved transport infrastructure, improved wayfinding, and safety enhancements, to improve network connectivity and create more appealing routes for tourists. By understanding the true usage and behaviour of active visitors and tourists in Gauja National Park, its managers and policymakers can create targeted plans that not only improve the visitor experience but also reduce reliance on private vehicles and address mass tourism in mass tourism destinations. This research provides a valuable framework for other protected areas seeking to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability through data-based policy.
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References15
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