Wicked Problems in Modern City

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Problem definition

Transportation poses a major challenge in contemporary urban areas, marked by a complicated mix of issues like traffic congestion, insufficient public transportation networks, and environmental worries (Litman, 2021). The rise in urban populations along with more people owning cars has caused traffic congestion on streets, leading to time wastage, air pollution, and economic inefficiencies (Gómez-Ibáñez, 2020). Moreover, the use of personal cars worsens social disparities, since the availability of transportation choices affects people's access to education, work, and healthcare services (Gutiérrez & Solá, 2019). Insufficient public transportation infrastructure exacerbates the problem, especially in low-income neighborhoods where people may face restricted options for affordable and dependable transit (Sundar & Wang, 2018). Dealing with the complex issue of transportation requires all-encompassing solutions that give importance to sustainable ways of getting around, like public transportation, walking, and biking, as well as including new technologies and policies to decrease traffic and enhance accessibility for everyone (Banister, 2008). Further, it is crucial to invest in infrastructure and multimodal transportation planning to develop transportation systems that are both effective and fair, catering to the varied needs of urban populations (Hensher & Button, 2018).


User persona - Zhassulan Niyazaly

(D. Owen, 2019)

Storyboard

Solution 1: Congestion Pricing

(Team, 2023)

Implementing congestion pricing involves levying tolls or fees for driving in congested areas during peak hours (Litman, 2020). By charging drivers for the privilege of using busy roads at times of high demand, congestion pricing aims to manage traffic flow more efficiently and reduce gridlock. This approach incentivizes commuters to seek alternative modes of transportation, such as public transit, walking, or cycling, or to adjust their travel times to off-peak hours (Eliasson, 2020). Congestion pricing has been successfully implemented in various cities worldwide, including London, Stockholm, and Singapore, where it has led to significant reductions in traffic congestion, improved air quality, and increased revenue for transportation infrastructure investments (Shoup, 2018). For example, London's congestion pricing scheme, introduced in 2003, reduced traffic congestion by 30% within its first few years of implementation (Mayor of London, 2020). Additionally, congestion pricing can help fund public transportation improvements and other sustainable urban initiatives, further enhancing the overall quality of life in cities (Small & Verhoef, 2007).


Solution 2: Electric Bike

The first solution to Our wicked problem is based on problems involving car expenses and spending a lot of time in traffic while driving our cars however, the hot heat, steep roads, and lengthy distances make riding a bike less convenient but on the other hand what can solve the problem is an e-scooter People can avoid parking issues, waste money, and save time by using an e-scooter sharing program. Because of the location, it will also be more appropriate than bikes it will also encourage people to be more aware of eco-friendly transportation while also reducing their transportation expenses e-scooters reduce congestion by offering a convenient and effective form of mobility. In urban locations, e-scooter rides might reduce traffic congestion by taking the place of car trips, particularly during peak hours also enhance last-mile E-scooters bridge the distance between public transportation hubs and ultimate destinations, offering a practical answer to the last-mile dilemma. With public transportation providing a practical and environmentally responsible choice for the final portion of their journey, individuals are encouraged to use it more frequently e-scooters offer multiple benefits environmentally and for time management but still, we should be aware of the safety concerns regarding them. (Owens, 2024) (Andreas, 2024)


Solution 3: Transit-oriented development (TOD)

The transit-oriented development (TOD) is strategic urban planning & creating sustainable and active communities around efficient public transport. By narrowing down mixed-use developments containing residential, business, and recreational areas within easy walking distance of existing hubs like rail or bus stations, TOD decreases the use of cars and encourages alternative means of transport. This layout, which is dense and interconnected, not only prevents the urban sprawl from getting bigger but also makes it more convenient for the residents to get around(The World Bank. (n.d.)).

The major components of TOD include a focus on a pedestrian-friendly environment with the help of sidewalks, bike lanes, and many more technologies that will motivate the use of active transportation and decrease the dependency on personal vehicles. In addition, TOD typically covers the provision of affordable housing units by creating an inclusive society and offering dwelling choices close to workplaces and necessary services(The World Bank. (n.d.)).

As the TOD keeps traffic congestion at a low level, cities also witness improved air quality and reduced levels of greenhouse gas emissions. The density, variety, and accessibility of public transit in mixed-use communities of TOD contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and resilient urban environment. In many successful TOD cases such as in Portland, Curitiba, and Hong Kong they show that this scheme is very effective in producing human-oriented as well as transit-friendly areas. In general, TOD presents the total package that caters not only to environmental sustainability demands but also addresses social equality issues(TOD Standard – ITDP. (n.d.)).


Reference

  • Team, W. (2023, October 7). Congestion Pricing - What Is It, Exemptions, Example, Pros, Cons. WallStreetMojo. https://www.wallstreetmojo.com/congestion-pricing/
  • World Bank Group. (2017). Transforming the Urban Space through Transit-Oriented Development: the 3V Approach. In World Bank. https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/transport/publication/transforming-the-urban-space-through-transit-oriented-development-the-3v-approach
  • TOD Standard – ITDP. (n.d.). Tod.itdp.org. https://tod.itdp.org/what-is-tod.html
  • Owens, D. (2019, January 28). UX CASE STUDY — WICKED PROBLEMS. Medium. https://medium.com/@denizowens/ux-case-study-wicked-problems-a7bddcf6dfa2

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