Walking the last mile: A longitudinal evaluation of Olympic legacy and public space transformation in Tokyo

Abstract

Introduction: Sports mega-events including the Summer Olympic Games are often framed as opportunities to improve urban environments and promote physical activity in host cities. However, limited research has assessed the longitudinal transformation of public spaces near host venues. This study evaluates changes to the public space Olympic sites—the Olympic Stadium and the Athlete Village—across a six-year period, focusing on their potential to support active living. Methods: A longitudinal, mixed-methods design was employed. Walking audits were conducted by teams of researchers at each site in 2018 (pre-hosting) and 2022/24 (post-hosting), using GIS/GPS mapping, the validated Physical Activity Resource Assessment (PARA) tool, street photography, and field notes. Audit routes followed the ‘last mile’ from the nearest mass transit point to and around each venue. PARA scores were calculated for overall environmental change and three constituent sub-scales: features, amenities, and incivilities. Observational and photographic data were reviewed thematically to contextualise quantitative findings. Results: Both sites demonstrated improvements in PARA scores (Olympic Stadium: +19%; Athlete Village: +15%), particularly in amenities (e.g., improved urban design) and reduced incivilities (e.g. summer overgrowth). New and remediated infrastructure was evident, including widened pavements, separated cycling lanes, new playgrounds, and public exercise prescriptive rules for open space use (e.g., prohibiting ball games and ride-on play), limited shade, and seasonal climate challenges were noted as barriers. Observational data highlighted discrepancies between infrastructure upgrades and user accessibility or comfort. Conclusion: The Tokyo Games generated measurable improvements in public space quality near marquee Olympic venues. Mixed methods walking audits provided nuanced insights into these changes and their relevance for urban activity. Nonetheless, legacy impacts may be constrained by under-addressed environmental conditions and socio-cultural norms. This approach offers a replicable model for evaluating urban health legacies of future mega-events.