A Study of the Opinions of the People on the Design of the Overpasses and Road Crossing Tunnel: Case Study of Longhad Bang Saen Road, Saen Suk Subdistrict, Chonburi Province

Abstract

This study aimed to survey the opinions of pedestrians on the appropriateness of the location of the overpass and underpass designs based on universal design principles at Longhad Bang Saen Road, Saensuk Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chonburi Province. Three suitable locations for the construction of overpasses and road crossing tunnel were selected: the intersection of Longhad Bang Saen Road and Mitsampan Road (Rang Rae Intersection), the intersection of Bang Saen Beach Road and Bang Saen Road 2 (Charin Intersection), and the Bang Saen circle where Longhad Bang Saen Road intersects Bang Saen Road 1 (Bang Saen circle). The overpass and underpass designs were designed based on universal design principles. To provide video clips showing details of the overpass and road crossing tunnel designs, which were broadcasted on YouTube and survey attitude of pedestrians via Google Forms. The results of the study found that overpasses were more suitable than road crossing tunnel at Rang Rae and Charin Intersections, while underpasses were more suitable than overpasses at Bang Saen circle. The study also found that: The suitability of the overpass at Rang Rae Intersection has the highest average score as convenience of use (3.56), and the suitability of the tunnel at Rang Rae Intersection has the highest average score as not obstructing footpath (3.29). The suitability of the overpass at Charin Intersection has the highest average score as facility that accord universal design (elevator, escalator for the disabled, elderly) (3.45). As for the suitability of the tunnel at Charin Intersection, the highest average score as not obstructing footpath (3.35), while the suitability of the tunnel at Bang Saen circle has the highest average score as convenience of use (3.31). Suggestions for safety: CCTV cameras should be installed to monitor for 24 hours, and emergency assistance devices should be provided. The tunnel should be open only during daytime, from 08:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. on weekdays, but may be open 24 hours a day during long weekend.