Optimizing Urban Space: Placement and Obstacles - ISISS M. Casagrande (Pieve di Soligo)

This work investigates a set of spatial optimization and facility location problems in urban environments. The study first examines how a city can be divided into catchment areas when the hospital locations are fixed, with the aim of optimizing accessibility for the residents. It then considers the inverse problem, where urban areas are predefined and hospitals must be strategically positioned to minimize travel distances and maximize the population coverage. Particular attention is given to the impact of geographical obstacles, such as a central lake, which can significantly affect connectivity, accessibility, and the structure of catchment areas. Finally, the work explores a competitive location problem in which, given two existing shops, the optimal placement of a third store is determined in order to capture the largest possible market area.