Smart cities challenges in urban transport systems for small-sized cities : Case Seinäjoki city, Finland
Kigozi, Victor Zac (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024122938165
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024122938165
Tiivistelmä
The study examined smart cities’ challenges in urban transport systems for small-sized cities, using Seinäjoki City, Finland, as a case example. It was guided by three objectives i) to analyze the current public transport system in small cities in Finland, ii) to the most innovative and current public transport solutions in small cities in the world and to see opportunities for Seinäjoki City and its urban surroundings, iii) to review citizens’ preference regarding public transportation, and to propose modern solutions and alternatives for Seinäjoki City.
The study adopted a quantitative research design, which primarily focused on quantifying relationships, behaviors, and other phenomena within a specific context. The primary data collection instrument for this study was a structured survey (questionnaire), designed and uploaded on the Google Forms platform.
The study results revealed that the infrequent use of buses and trains highlights areas where the current public transport system may not be meeting residents' needs, particularly in terms of coverage and service frequency. It was also revealed that a considerable portion of the population is open to paying more for environmentally responsible transportation, reflecting the community’s growing awareness of sustainability. Challenges such as unsynchronized schedules between buses and trains cause difficulties for residents trying to combine multiple transport options.
The study concluded that the infrequent use of buses and trains highlights areas where the current public transport system may not be meeting residents' needs, particularly in terms of coverage and service frequency. Additionally, there is a noticeable interest in sustainable transport solutions, with many respondents indicating a preference for eco-friendly options.
The study recommended the improvement of bus and train schedules by increasing service frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends, to enhance accessibility for residents who need transportation outside standard hours. It was also recommended that public transport routes should include underserved areas, especially on the outskirts of Seinäjoki, ensuring that all residents can access essential services and facilities without needing to rely on personal vehicles.
The study adopted a quantitative research design, which primarily focused on quantifying relationships, behaviors, and other phenomena within a specific context. The primary data collection instrument for this study was a structured survey (questionnaire), designed and uploaded on the Google Forms platform.
The study results revealed that the infrequent use of buses and trains highlights areas where the current public transport system may not be meeting residents' needs, particularly in terms of coverage and service frequency. It was also revealed that a considerable portion of the population is open to paying more for environmentally responsible transportation, reflecting the community’s growing awareness of sustainability. Challenges such as unsynchronized schedules between buses and trains cause difficulties for residents trying to combine multiple transport options.
The study concluded that the infrequent use of buses and trains highlights areas where the current public transport system may not be meeting residents' needs, particularly in terms of coverage and service frequency. Additionally, there is a noticeable interest in sustainable transport solutions, with many respondents indicating a preference for eco-friendly options.
The study recommended the improvement of bus and train schedules by increasing service frequency, particularly during evenings and weekends, to enhance accessibility for residents who need transportation outside standard hours. It was also recommended that public transport routes should include underserved areas, especially on the outskirts of Seinäjoki, ensuring that all residents can access essential services and facilities without needing to rely on personal vehicles.