The transportation infrastructures become increasingly burdened due to the growth of new developments and changes in the surrounding transportation network. The Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) for study areas such as intersections and roads are meticulously conducted by studying existing traffic conditions, projecting future demands, and proposing necessary mitigation measures.
At Krest Engineers, we collaborate closely with various transportation authorities such as state DOT, city or county engineering departments to identify the traffic impact study needs and the areas. Utilizing various software like OTISS Pro, Synchro 12, etc., the existing conditions of the transportation network are modeled. The traffic counts and data collection at identified intersections are performed by sophisticated devices, with the data being post-processed and tailored with traffic models to simulate the existing conditions.
Drawing from historical data, the traffic growth patterns and growth rates in the study area are identified. Based on the traffic growth rate, the future background traffic conditions are also simulated in the model. Employing the ITE Trip Generation manual, the trip generation volumes for the proposed development are calculated, and the volume is distributed throughout all inbound and outbound intersections based on traffic patterns.
All site or proposed development generated traffic volumes are simulated in the traffic network model. The capacity analyses for all identified intersections are performed using traffic simulation techniques outlined in the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM). Critical information on traffic operations is obtained, expressed in terms of the Level of Service (LOS). These capacity analysis results, particularly for AM and PM Peak Hours, guide the determination of whether any mitigation measures are required to uphold the necessary level of service.
Additionally, traffic simulation plays a pivotal role in the access management of proposed developments. Based on simulation results and local jurisdiction requirements, the mitigation measures are recommended such as the need for signal timing adjustment, traffic signals, left-turn lanes, right-turn lanes, queue lengths, minimum driveway spacing, etc.