Urbanization and Ecological Repercussion on Active Transport and Micromobility Facilities

The escalating impacts of ecological shifts present serious challenges to non-motorized transportation (walking, bicycling) facilities (NMTFs) and micromobility in Delaware. This study examines how coastal flow, temperature, flooding, and urbanization affect the accessibility, safety, and resilience of active transportation systems, using Delaware as a case study through geospatial analysis and demographic overlays. GIS-based mapping was applied to evaluate exposure of transportation infrastructure under coastal flow scenarios ranging from 1 to 7 feet, revealing that several NMTF corridors intersect with high-risk flood zones, posing threats to long-term usability. Projected temperature increases of 2.5 - 4.5？F by 2050 may promote active transportation during moderate conditions but also disrupt usage through infrastructure strain, health risks, and service interruptions. Flooding further damages critical infrastructure, while urbanization compounds these risks by increasing impervious surfaces, reducing natural drainage, and concentrating populations in vulnerable areas. Spatial analysis highlights significant overlaps between areas of high ecological exposure and communities reliant on walking, biking, and micromobility, underscoring the urgency of integrating adaptive infrastructure such as shaded pathways, elevated bike lanes, and flood-resilient surfaces into transportation planning. Expanding micromobility networks, enhancing cooling strategies, and prioritizing adaptive policies can mitigate ecological impacts on mobility and public health, contributing to more inclusive and sustainable environments. The findings highlight the need for resilient active transportation planning in areas facing ecological pressures. Future work may expand the analysis by incorporating community-based surveys and analytical tools to evaluate user experiences under changing environmental conditions.