2023 Volume 22 Issue 3 Pages 494-500
In recent years, promoting the creation of vibrant downtown areas around stations to encourage a comfortable and walkable environment, forming a walkable town, has become crucial. While various walkable activities are taking place around JR stations in Shiga Prefecture, the escalating frequency and severity of natural disasters require a focus on disaster prevention and mitigation. This study targets the JR station surroundings in Shiga Prefecture, known nationally for advanced watershed management. It aims to assess safety based on flood risks and geographical conditions, providing analysis and insights for achieving safe and compact urban development around stations. Facility location analysis within a 1km radius of 24 stations in the northern part of Shiga Prefecture identifies areas suitable for urban development within walking distance, revealing geographical features and challenges in four northern cities. It becomes evident that, despite ample habitable land in some station surroundings, the risk of water-related disasters hinders urban expansion.
