Automotive retrofits in historic city centres and their potential effects on their walkability: a comparison of San Luis Obispo, CA, USA and Bath, England, UK

Historic districts often contain retrofits to accommodate automotive infrastructure, primarily parking, that can negatively impact walkability. This research examines how various approaches to historic preservation and parking retrofits in two historic central districts (Bath and San Luis Obispo) impact walkability. Case study analysis, planning and historic conservation literature reviews, and walkability indicator observations were conducted for both sites. Results indicate that Bath limits surface parking in its historic core whereas San Luis Obispo has a greater degree of parking retrofits that reduces walkability. Walkability factors were lower for streets containing surface parking that disrupts the relationship between buildings and walkways.