Evaluation of Road Network Accessibility and Traffic Congestion in Enugu Urban Area

Traffic congestion and inadequate road network accessibility have increasingly impaired urban mobility and economic productivity in Nigerian cities. This study evaluates road network accessibility and the nature of traffic congestion within Enugu Urban Area, focusing on key arterial roads including Ogui Road, Independence Layout, and the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway interchange. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, integrating traffic volume counts, travel time surveys, and spatial analysis using GIS. Structured interviews were conducted with 180 road users, commercial drivers, and Enugu State Ministry of Works officials to assess perception of road quality, traffic management, and alternative route availability. Secondary data were obtained from the Federal Road Safety Corps and Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority. Preliminary findings suggest that peak-hour congestion is most acute at major intersections, fueled by inadequate signal systems, on-street parking, and uncontrolled roadside trading. The study employs network analysis to identify accessibility gaps and underserved neighborhoods. Key recommendations include junction improvements at identified hotspot locations, implementation of traffic demand management strategies, and enforcement of parking regulations to reduce carriageway encroachment. The findings are intended to guide Enugu State urban planners and transport authorities in prioritizing road infrastructure investments and designing more efficient mobility solutions aligned with the city's growth trajectory. Keywords: Road network, Traffic congestion, Accessibility, Enugu, Urban mobility.