What are some effective ways to incorporate schools and universities into traffic impact analysis?

3 Identify and evaluate impacts

The third step is to identify and evaluate the impacts of the schools and universities on the transportation system. This includes impacts on the traffic volume, speed, delay, level of service, queue length, and safety of the road segments and intersections within the study area. The impacts can be quantified and measured using various methods, such as traffic simulation models, capacity analysis tools, or crash analysis techniques. The impacts should be assessed for both the existing and future scenarios, with and without the schools and universities. The impacts should also be compared with the established thresholds or criteria, such as the level of service standards, the congestion management objectives, or the safety performance measures.

4 Propose and test mitigation measures

The fourth step is to propose and test mitigation measures that can reduce or eliminate the negative impacts of the schools and universities on the transportation system. The mitigation measures can be classified into two categories: demand management and supply management. Demand management measures aim to reduce the number or length of trips generated by the schools and universities, such as encouraging alternative modes, implementing parking policies, or providing shuttle services. Supply management measures aim to increase the capacity or efficiency of the transportation system, such as improving road geometry, adding lanes, or optimizing signal timing. The mitigation measures should be tested and evaluated using the same methods and criteria as the impact analysis.

5 Prepare and present the report

The final step is to prepare and present the report that summarizes the findings and recommendations of the TIA. The report should include the following elements: the purpose and scope of the TIA, the description of the study area and the schools and universities, the data collection and analysis methods, the impact identification and evaluation results, the mitigation measure proposals and testing results, and the conclusions and suggestions for further action. The report should also include the supporting documents, such as maps, tables, charts, and appendices. The report should be clear, concise, and consistent, and follow the format and style guidelines of the relevant agency or authority. The report should also be presented and communicated to the stakeholders, such as the planners, developers, officials, and public, in an appropriate and engaging manner.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?