Analyzing Large Truck and Pedestrian Traffic Patterns in the Lewis - Clark Valley Area
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Jenni Light
Abstract
One big challenge facing transportation planners is the lack of data about pedestrian usage and demand for signage and walkways. Without accurate reliable data it is difficult to measure the positive benefits of investments in these resources. Similar issues occur with large truck traffic in metropolitan areas – there is limited data describing large truck movement which may not have been accounted for in roadway design. The aim of this research was to describe and measure pedestrian and truck movement in a smaller metropolitan area (Lewiston, Idaho) assisting the local Metropolitan Planning Organization in analyzing and prioritizing regional transportation projects. Two separate traffic studies were performed; one analyzing pedestrian movement and one analyzing large truck traffic. Data were collected through an ongoing traffic count project with sites in Idaho and Washington. Data was collected for both pedestrians and trucks describing and quantifying direction of travel and turning movements to develop density and movement patterns. Recommended state and city truck routes were compared with actual truck movement. Finally, reports were created to share with the Lewis - Clark Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (LCVMPO).
Analyzing Large Truck and Pedestrian Traffic Patterns in the Lewis - Clark Valley Area
One big challenge facing transportation planners is the lack of data about pedestrian usage and demand for signage and walkways. Without accurate reliable data it is difficult to measure the positive benefits of investments in these resources. Similar issues occur with large truck traffic in metropolitan areas – there is limited data describing large truck movement which may not have been accounted for in roadway design. The aim of this research was to describe and measure pedestrian and truck movement in a smaller metropolitan area (Lewiston, Idaho) assisting the local Metropolitan Planning Organization in analyzing and prioritizing regional transportation projects. Two separate traffic studies were performed; one analyzing pedestrian movement and one analyzing large truck traffic. Data were collected through an ongoing traffic count project with sites in Idaho and Washington. Data was collected for both pedestrians and trucks describing and quantifying direction of travel and turning movements to develop density and movement patterns. Recommended state and city truck routes were compared with actual truck movement. Finally, reports were created to share with the Lewis - Clark Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (LCVMPO).