Linking nighttime outdoor lighting attributes to pedestrians' feeling of safety: An interactive survey approach

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242172
• Publication Date: 2020-11-10T20:18:33Z
• Authors: Boris A. Portnov; Rami Saad; Tamar Trop; Doron Kliger; Alina Svechkina
• Keywords: Affect; PSL; Mobile phone

Public space lighting (PSL) contributes to pedestrians’ feeling of safety (FoS) in urban areas after natural dark. However, little is known how different PSL attributes, such as illuminance, light temperature, uniformity and glare, affect people's FoS contextual settings. The present study aims bridge this knowledge gap by developing a model linking attributes with FoS, while controlling for individual, locational, environmental temporal factors. To develop model, the employs novel interactive user-oriented method, based on specially-designed mobile phone application–CityLights TM . Using app, representative sample observers reported their impressions three cities Israel, following set predetermined routes points. As shows, higher levels illumination positively lights perceived warm tend generate than cold. These findings may guide future polices aimed at promoting energy efficiency ensuring sustainability.