Road Network Analysis Based on Geo-Historical Data

EasyChair Preprint no. 5453

Abstract

Road network construction results from a subtle balance between geographical coverage and rapid access to the strategic points of space. The understanding of the road network structure is fundamental to evaluate and improve territorial accessibility.

In this ongoing work, a morphological analysis of road patterns over time is developed on three cities (Besançon, Dijon, Pontarlier), over three historical periods (the 18^th, 19^th and 20^th centuries). This study is based on geo-historical data provided by historical maps. Those maps allow us to digitize historical road networks. From those networks, a graph is built, allowing us to compute indicators based on their topological and geometrical properties. Thus, it is possible to compare their characteristics and highlight valuable information through space and time.

In a prospective vision, this work aims to identify mechanisms leading road network evolution. Studying road network morphogenesis to detect indicators stability or variation over time, and to identify similar behaviors, despite geographic and cultural distances, is of major support for better understanding their impact on access and mobility.

Keyphrases: complex networks, Geo-historical data, graph theory, Road network analysis, urban morphology

@Booklet{EasyChair:5453,
  author = {Hanae El Gouj and Claire Lagesse},
  title = {Road Network Analysis Based on Geo-Historical Data},
  howpublished = {EasyChair Preprint no. 5453},

  year = {EasyChair, 2021}}