On-Street Parking and Pedestrian Safety in the Kumasi Metropolis: Issues of Culture and Attitude

Abstract

Although many benefits are accrued to on-street parking, it can pose danger to the safety of road users if not managed properly. Behavioural and cultural attitude are among factors that create problems of congestion, danger to pedestrian safety and inconveniences among many other issues. Using the Offinso road as a case study, factors that restrict on-street parking and pedestrians’ safety on the road are investigated in the light of attitude and culture. With systematic and purposive sampling techniques, it came to light that the practices of motorists and some commercial operators impede the flow of vehicles, and safety of pedestrians. It is therefore vital to focus on culture and attitudinal change rather than relying only on visible and factual information in promoting a successful on-street parking and pedestrian safety. Influencing culture and attitudinal change of road users in turn requires education, sensitization and enforcement of on-street parking regulation.

Keywords: Parking, on-street parking, pedestrian safety, transportation, Ghanaian culture and attitude