Head of the lab: Prof. Itzhak Omer
The lab was established to promote sustainable urbanism both by studying the interplay between spatial behavior and the properties of the built environment, and by using advanced methods for spatial, topological, and visual analysis of movement and activity in urban space. In the lab, we investigate how spatial behavior such as movement, road navigation, and functional and social activities are related to the properties and structure of built or planned urban environments, such as the street network and the spatial distribution of land use.
The research conducted in the lab and the models we develop within it contribute to and assist in the planning of healthy, vibrant, and sustainable cities. Using advanced geographic information technology, spatial databases, and models for simulation and prediction of movement, functional and social activity, we develop tools that assist local authorities in various areas, including promoting walkability, road safety, spatial orientation, and vitality of city centers.
Recently we developed an innovative simulation model for the prediction of pedestrian movement in existing or planned urban environments. This tool is designed to assist in urban and transportation planning, for example, the construction of the light rail metro stations or adapting urban infrastructure for pedestrians (sidewalks, shading, safety measures, etc.). More details on the webpage >>
