MULTI-CRITERIA EVALUATION OF THE BICYCLE PATHWAYS IN CARAGUATATUBA, BRAZIL

Abstract

Caraguatatuba, the most populous municipality on São Paulo's northeastern coast, experiences high travel demand. Despite gaps in public transport coverage, the city's flat topography encourages intensive bicycle use. This study evaluates the efficiency and technical limitations of Caraguatatuba's cycling infrastructure by developing a quantifiable performance index. A survey with 70 users was conducted to determine the key criteria that affected their cycling experience. A cognitive mapping approach supported the criteria selection, later refined through expert consultation using the Delphi method. Criteria were weighted using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), and efficiency scores were assigned to 100-meter segments along major cycling routes using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).Results indicate that 47% of the network falls within a medium-efficiency range (index scores between 3.1 and 4.0). Higher-performing segments were primarily located along the seaside avenue, while lower scores were observed in southern areas with greater social vulnerability and less tourist activity. Deficiencies in maintenance and drainage were the most significant contributors to reduced infrastructure quality in these areas. The study offers a replicable framework for evaluating cycling infrastructure, which can assist urban managers in prioritizing investment and improvement strategies. It contributes to the broader goal of increasing cycling mode share and enhancing the overall efficiency and equity of urban transport systems.