Abstract: Research on summertime extreme heat patterns and their link to heat-related Emergency Medical Services (EMS) incidents remains limited, despite rising concerns about heat waves and their health impacts. This study explores spatiotemporal patterns of the heat index (HI) and its relationship to heat-related EMS incidents in Austin-Travis County, Texas,… read more
Projects
Exploring Urban Space through AI: Comparative Insights from OpenAI ChatGPT and Google Bard
Abstract: This study compares the abilities of two AI chatbots, OpenAI ChatGPT and Google Bard, to understand urban environments, inspired by Kevin Lynch’s “Image of the City.” We examined their grasp of city landmarks, navigation, and spatial perception. ChatGPT offered factual, generalized responses, while Google Bard provided detailed, immersive answers… read more
Towards AI-Generated Sustainable Cities: An Investigation of GPT-4 and DALL-E in Urban Design
Abstract: This study investigates the potential of AI tools, GPT-4 and DALL-E, in generating sustainable urban design concepts addressing key issues like urban heat islands, walkability, and green spaces. Through a systematic methodology, the study demonstrates the ability of these tools to generate novel ideas, while also revealing limitations in… read more
Comparing the impacts of COVID-19 on residential rental market across rental sectors: Evidence from city of Austin
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected rental housing prices, but previous research lacks comprehensive data across different residential categories. This study fills that gap by analyzing 48 months of closed rental listings from the Austin region’s Multiple Listing Service. It examines the pandemic’s impact on four types of residential properties,… read more
EVALUATING THE AFFORDABILITY AND THE IMPACTS OF PUBLIC TRANSIT SERVICES: An Expandable and Predictable Framework of Location Affordability in Los Angeles County
Abstract: This dissertation addresses limitations in existing affordability frameworks, proposing an expandable framework to incorporate critical components like health costs. Focusing on Los Angeles County, it examines the impacts of public transit on location affordability, emphasizing accessibility factors and socio-demographic influences on property values. The study validates public transit’s role… read more
Identifying transit deserts for low-income commuters in Wuhan Metropolitan Area, China
Abstract: This research examines the spatial patterns of transit systems and commuter flows in the Wuhan Metropolitan Area, China, using Baidu users’ location data. It identifies transit deserts that particularly affect low-income commuters. The study reveals several key findings: Firstly, most transit demand originates from trips between neighboring communities, while… read more
Understanding the Shared E-scooter Travels in Austin, TX
Abstract: This paper examines the travel patterns of 1.7 million shared E-scooter trips in Austin, TX, spanning from April 2018 to February 2019. With over 6,000 active E-scooters monthly, these trips covered approximately 117,000 miles. During this period, the average trip distance was 0.77 miles, lasting 7.55 minutes. Two primary… read more
Using Open Source Data to Identify Transit Deserts in Four Major Chinese Cities
Abstract: This study investigates transit deserts in major Chinese cities, inspired by the concept of food deserts. Using open-source data, transit desert areas in Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, and Chengdu are identified. Key findings include: (1) Transit deserts are primarily found in city centers, unlike in developed countries such as the… read more
Impact of Neighborhood Built Environments on Shopping Travel Modes in Shanghai, China
Abstract: This study examines how neighborhood built environments influence pedestrians’ shopping travel activities in Shanghai, China, a high-density urban setting where walking is a common mode of transportation. Using data from a survey conducted in 2011 across 21 randomly selected neighborhoods, including shopping travel patterns, perceived environmental characteristics, and individual… read more
The Geography and Equity of Crowdsourced Public Participation for Active Transportation Planning
Abstract: This paper explores the geography and equity of public participation methods in Austin, Texas, focusing on active transportation planning. It compares traditional in-person meetings with digital approaches, including a public participation geographic information system (PPGIS) and a smartphone platform for crowdsourcing input on biking and walking routes. The study… read more