Unraveling the relationship between built environment and multimodal commuting behaviors: A case study of Beijing

Recent research has underscored the importance of studying multimodal travel behavior through the lens of intra-individual variability, which can inform more targeted transportation intervention strategies. However, while many studies have focused on multimodal travel behavior across different populations, few have delved into the relationship between the built environment and multimodal behavior. Utilizing commuting behavior survey data from Beijing residents, this study explores the relationship between the built environment and various multimodal and monomodal travel behaviors. Additionally, it aims to propose targeted environmental intervention strategies to support and promote more sustainable travel choices. Using latent class analysis (LCA), we first identify five distinct groups, each representing different multimodal and monomodal travel behaviors, and outlined the key characteristics of each group. We then employ a hybrid choice model (HCM) to explore the complex interactions between the built environment, travel preferences, and commuting mode choice. The findings reveal that even when controlling for travel attitudes and preferences, the built environment remains a significant association with different modality styles. This suggests that geographic context plays a crucial role in shaping travel behavior. Additionally, the study highlights that multimodal travel behavior emerges from the interplay between diverse travel mode choices and certain mobility constraints, with the built environment being a key factor in this process. The study emphasizes the need for differentiated intervention strategies that cater to various multimodal and monomodal groups in different geographic regions.