Natalie Daugherty

Fehr & Peers

Right-Sizing Transportation Infrastructure Investments for a San Francisco Bay Area City

A combination of Visum, Vistro, and Vissim was used to evaluate transportation impacts and inform recommendations for a large mixed-use community. This presentation will demonstrate the benefits of using a combination of modeling software for comprehensive transportation analysis.

Mahmoud Raoufi

The Goodman Corp.

Analyzing the Accessibility via Public Transit using GTFS, OSM and Census Data

The “Accessibility” is the number of attraction units (e.g. jobs) reachable from a zone accounting for the desirability of travel (called travel acceptance, e.g. inverse of travel time). It can be formulated in different ways. In this study, to make the outputs more tangible, bins (intervals) of transit travel time are set and the number of attraction units accessible within each bin is used as the value of Accessibility. PTV Visum was used for calculating transit travel time and to overlap demographic data with the zones in the model. To do this, the GTFS data of multiple operators was imported to Visum and combined with the walk network from the OSM to model the transit supply.

Alex Chambers

Ricondo

Using Attribute Modification with Vissim and Viswalk for Vehicle and Passenger Connections at an Airport Curbside

Development of a model which includes simulation of both pedestrians and vehicles in an airport curbside interacting with each other. Through Users Defined Attributes and Attribute Modification, the model ties pedestrians and vehicles together enabling pedestrians and vehicles to find each other on the airport curbside. This includes pedestrians waiting on the curb and vehicles parking as close as possible, pedestrians walking to waiting vehicles, or vehicles recirculating until their passenger gets to the curbside. The model also includes other elements of the airport system including a baggage.

Kevin Gu

AECOM

Replication of Variable Message Signs (VMS) in Vissim model

AECOM Tampa conducted a traffic study to assess the impact of a proposed mixed-use development on adjacent roadways. A portion of the project’s traffic will exit the site through a capacity-constrained, signalized intersection, referred to as Intersection X. If traffic conditions at Intersection X become excessively congested, drivers can also use a freeway on-ramp to exit the project site. The option to install a Variable Message Sign (VMS) was tested to provide drivers with real-time information. If the volumes at Intersection X exceed a certain threshold, the VMS will direct traffic to the on-ramp to prevent severe congestion.

The ability to replicate a Variable Message Sign (VMS) is not readily available in any standard traffic analysis and simulation software. PTV Vissim was selected for this analysis due to its unique feature of formula-based routing, which can emulate the functionality of a VMS closely. Formula-based routing was configured in the model to dynamically guide traffic to its destination, depending on the traffic conditions at Intersection X.

After implementing the formula-based routing feature, the Vissim model began to display more realistic traffic operations. Traffic within the project site achieved equilibrium, and the trips generated by the proposed development were dynamically distributed to either Intersection X or the freeway on-ramp, depending on the level of congestion at Intersection X

Victoria Edington

Stantec

Roadway Renovation: Using Microsimulation to Identify Safety and Operational Improvements in Sheridan, Wyoming

This presentation will walk through the process of developing existing conditions, future background, and three future alternative scenarios in VISSIM for a safety and operational corridor study in the city of Sheridan, Wyoming. Highlights will include the extensive data collection process, determination of which driveways should be included in the model scope, and the use of Scenario Manager to build up the three future alternatives.

Trinh Hoang

Jacobs

Applications of Origin-Destination Big Data in Vissim Dynamic Traffic Assignment

A simulation model was developed for the entire Downtown San Antonio network using OD big data from StreetLight Insight and Vissim Dynamic traffic assignment (DTA) approach encompassing a 169 by 169 OD matrix, or approximately 28,000 OD pairs. To carry out the calibration process, the team proposed a calibration framework consisted of two major engineering stages: 1) the development of OD matrices using big data and 2) the calibration of traffic assignment. In the first stage, using origin-destination (OD) big data from the StreetLight Data mobility platform as the OD matrix generator, the team successfully developed and calibrated highly accurate OD matrices to use as inputs for the DTA simulation in various scenarios. In the second stage, the team calibrated traffic assignment using a combination of Vissim built-in computerized dynamic traffic assignment calibration tools and manual calibration process, resulting in a simulation model with over 85 percent of network links within 15 percent of field collected volumes. The process involved multidisciplinary teams with in-dept understanding of Vissim, StreetLight Data, and the project area working together in several weeks. This presentation delves into the significant insights gained from this innovative project and aims to provide traffic engineers a data framework and considerations regarding the application of big data within dynamic traffic assignment simulation. Key aspects covered would include network scoping, data processing, and calibration as well as performance measuring tools the team had used to reach convergence.

Jiamin Tan, Tinotenda Jonga & Ron Ramos

Fehr & Peers

Pedestrian Microsimulation to Evaluate Circulation at a Planned Multi-level Light Rail Station

This project investigates the quality of transfer for pedestrians between buses and light rail at a planned station in North America. The station is comprised of three elevation levels connected by several vertical conveyances. Unique to the region, over 90 percent of the passengers are anticipated to be bus-rail transfers. Using PTV Vissim/Viswalk, the project team modeled the multi-level components of the station, including pedestrian areas, vertical conveyances (stairs, escalators, and elevators), multiple entrances with ticket vending machines and fare gates, and trains and buses with planned schedules. The project simulated internal station circulation and transfers between buses and light rail outside the station. Model development included static and partial routes with varying route choice methods to calibrate and validate pedestrian activity with reference to comparable existing light-rail stations. Formulated route choice methods were also critical to dynamically assign passengers to available vertical conveyances under surge or congested conditions. Deliverables of this project included level of service (LOS) based on walkway and queue crowd flow, heat maps of experienced density, and travel time/delay estimates.

Zoey Zhang

Fehr & Peers

Modernizing Commercial Vehicle Enforcement: Enhancing safety and efficiency with advanced traffic simulation

This presentation will cover the development and benefits of the new Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Facility (CVEF) that will replace the outdated westbound scales with a state-of-the-art facility located 0.7 miles east of the current location. As part of California’s network of CVEFs, this project is crucial for maintaining highway integrity and ensuring the safety of road users by preventing overweight commercial vehicles from operating on the roads. Join us to learn how cutting-edge simulation and modeling techniques are transforming commercial vehicle enforcement and enhancing safety on one of California's busiest highway corridors.

Roberto Ponce Lopez

Tecnologico de Monterrey

Integrating VISSUM with an Activity-Based Agent Microsimulator: Enhancing Urban Mobility Planning

Urban mobility planning is evolving with the integration of advanced simulation tools. This presentation explores the integration of PTV's VISSUM software with an activity-based agent microsimulator, developed in collaboration between Tecnológico de Monterrey and the University of Toronto for a case study in Mexico. By leveraging VISSUM's capabilities for traffic assignment and combining it with the detailed, behavior-focused approach of an activity-based microsimulator, we create a robust tool for urban transport planning. The session will cover the methodology of integration, real-world implementation in the Monterrey Metropolitan Area, and the benefits of using this hybrid model to design sustainable and efficient urban transport systems. Attendees will gain insights into how this integrated approach can help in making data-driven decisions to achieve zero-emission transport goals and improve overall mobility in urban areas.

Sree Gudimella

Fehr & Peers

Impact of Transit Priority Measures on Urban Traffic: Case Studies Using VISSIM Simulation

This presentation uses Vissim simulation software to assess transit signal priority (TSP) and signal preemption in two urban areas. The Los Angeles Metro G Line study evaluates methods to reduce bus travel time and intersection delays. The Sacramento Downtown Riverfront Streetcar study examines the impact of signal preemption on the downtown street network and recommends optimizations for better integration. Findings show the effect of these transit systems on traffic, including vehicles, buses, trains, bikes, and pedestrians.

Lindsey Ulizio, Sam Boso & Johnathan Avner

Whitman, Requardt & Associates, LLP

Advancing Regional Models: Applying Simulation-Based Assignment and Multi-Resolution Modeling

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Utilizing Big Data within the PTV Suite for Large-Scale Freeway Projects

Kelsey Lindberg & Collin Schroeder 

SRF Consulting Group

Iowa Crossroads of Global Innovation Dual Rail and Transload Study

Highway 7 in Webster County, Iowa serves as an important bridge between rail and truck transport. Located west of Fort Dodge, Iowa, this 2.5 mile section of Highway 7 between Fairbanks Avenue and Iowa Avenue provides sole access to industrial agricultural companies on the south side of the highway which connect via an existing transload facility to two class one rail providers, Canadian National (CN) to the south of the operating facilities, and Union Pacific (UP) to the east. Webster County wishes to study the potential for rail expansion in the study area. This section of Highway 7 includes five (5) unsignalized intersections and an existing at-grade rail crossing for the Union Pacific line. Operational analysis was completed using VISSIM to evaluate the interaction between vehicular traffic and rail operations. Alternatives were developed to maintain vehicle mobility and safety with the anticipated increase in freight movements in the area. VISSIM provided the ability to create visualizations to help stakeholders understand the interaction between the rail crossings and vehicular traffic and the potential queuing as a result.

Lingling Yang

AtkinsRealis

LRT Segment Operational Improvement in the West of Downtown Denver

This presentation includes a case study that uses Vissim as the main tool to investigate the feasibility of improving the public transit operations in downtown Denver. This project intends to investigate and develop operational strategies that could potentially improve the light rail transit (LRT) operations in this approximately 1.5-mile segment in the west of downtown. The study developed and calibrated the existing condition Vissim model to establish the existing conditions and evaluated the train/traffic operations under the muti-modal environment. Based upon the investigation of the existing concept of operations along the corridor, the potential improvement alternatives were identified and tested through extensive Vissim simulations. Two concepts of operations that would provide positive benefits were proposed as the short-term and mid to long-term strategies and will be further verified and transitioned into the next layer of the study.     

Laura Zhoa

Kittleson & Associates Inc.

New Hampshire Avenue Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Analysis in VISSIM

This presentation showcases the New Hampshire Avenue BRT analysis using VISSIM microsimulation. The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is advancing BRT infrastructure and service on New Hampshire Avenue, a Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) owned roadway. BRT implementation is challenging on this corridor due to its high vehicle travel volume, proximity to local service roads that accommodate residential and commercial access as well as vehicle parking, and a built environment that is nearly adjacent to the right-of-way in many locations. A broad set of viable bus priority concepts were developed including transit signal priority, queue jumps, various types of bus lanes, and the transition of vehicle travel lanes to bus only lanes. VISSIM microsimulation was able to consider the intricacies of the various alternatives and provided corridor and segment travel times for transit service, including BRT as well as local transit service, and for general purpose travel. This enabled a deeper consideration of the benefits of the proposed improvements that went beyond intersection performance alone.

Bharadwaj Bommanayakanahalli, Jaya Illuri, Hua Wang & Reddy Edulakanti

HDR

Traffic Signals Retiming for Multimodal Safety and Efficiency – City of Houston

The primary theme of this presentation is to share our workflow in using VISTRO for retiming traffic signals in a large urban network. The signal retiming project aims to improve the safety and efficiency of the network while prioritizing various modes of transportation, including vulnerable road users (VRU), transit, and motor vehicles. The model we developed, incorporating all the necessary parameters, will also serve as a capacity tool for the City of Houston to tackle transportation planning tasks in the future. Additionally, the presentation will offer insights into the advantages and challenges encountered when constructing a large urban signal network with VISTRO.

Hyun Jeong Park

AECOM

John F. Kennedy Airport new Terminal 6 taxi pick-up frontage modeling

This study introduces a comprehensive model for taxi passenger pick-up operations at the new JFK Airport Terminal 6, using VISSIM, VisVAP, and Viswalk to analyze taxi flow, pedestrian movement, and operational efficiency. VisVAP is key for accurately simulating real-world conditions, thus enhancing the model's precision. The insights obtained assist in refining operational strategies, optimizing resource use, and improving efficiency, with key metrics like passenger wait times and hourly pick-ups.

Joe Blasi & Zachary Cowart

HNTB

Leveraging the PTV Suite for the K-10 Capacity Improvements Study

With PTV’s product line of VISTRO, VISUM, and VISSIM connecting with one another, HNTB decided to use the suite to streamline our traffic modeling process. HNTB utilized all three products beginning with VISTRO, transferring to VISUM, and eventually VISSIM to develop peak hour traffic models in order to analyze existing, future no-build, and future build scenarios of a K-10 Capacity Improvement project in Johnson County, Kansas.

For the Project, HNTB was tasked with developing VISSIM models for the Kansas Department of Transportation who is looking to provide short term and long term solutions for current congestion and future developments in the area for approximately 22-miles along state highway K-10, K-7, I-435, I-35 and adjacent arterial corridors. The VISSIM model is used to test the geometric changes to the network for several design alternatives in order to reach a preferred alternative.

This presentation will walk through our experience of using VISSIM, VISUM, and VISTRO to efficiently build our traffic model and utilize key features to improve our workflow. We will discuss the challenges at several of the over-capacity interchanges and key improvements in the preferred alternative that were derived from VISSIM analysis.

Kim Sherry & Seyedamin Banihashemrad

WSP

Transit Facility Capacity Analysis with VISSIM – Using UDAs to investigate capacity of a multi-level system.

In order to conduct a capacity analysis for a multi-level transit facility, a VISSIM model was created to assess the feasibility of the terminal floors and the associated ramps and to optimize operations despite high levels of congestion during peak hours. The VISSIM models set out to incorporate bus schedules. However, to conduct a more conservative analysis and to mimic the nature of transit facilities in densely urban areas, bus bunching and arrival delays were built into the models to create a more realistic assessment of how well the terminal will handle the various magnitudes of buses. The 3-D VISSIM model accounted for real-time conditions such as bus arrival times and gate availability, current congestion, and availably of layover space by using complex routing decisions, user-defined attributes, and attribute modifications to simulate fleet assignment, movements and gate occupancy. This analysis used creative VISSIM tools to investigate the capacity of the terminal, assess operational changes to improve the system and the feasibility of the design changes. 

Michael Trueblood

WSP

Planning BRT Alignments to Meet San Antonio’s Needs

This presentation will focus on two proposed BRT Alignments within the City of San Antonio and managed by the regions’ transit agency VIA.  A successful BRT project relies on multiple components including coordination with multiple agencies and the public throughout all phases of the project.

A well-defined strategy for each alignment will be highlighted, including a focused review of the traffic analyses.  Both alignments included a combination of both curb and median stations to safely pick-up and drop-off passengers.  VISSIM was a key tool in both the analysis as well as stakeholder involvement.  From understanding the effect of eliminating a travel lane to assessing cross street traffic conditions, VISSIM played a key role in developing alignment of both BRT projects.

Han Zhang, Luigi Casinelli & Hua Wang

HDR

Evaluate Advanced Signal Control with VISSIM ASC-3 Virtual Controller

This presentation demonstrates advanced traffic control schemes to minimize delays for pedestrians and side-street traffic, utilizing the ASC/3 virtual controller and VISSIM simulation software. The ASC/3 controller functions are tested to model Lead Pedestrian Intervals (LPI), rest-in-walk, pedestrian re-service, and phase re-service in a controlled, risk-free environment. The performance metrics are developed to support data-driven decision-making. The demonstration will help the adoption of advanced traffic control schemes to continuously support efficient and safe traffic signal control for all road users.

Zelan Jia

Jacobs

A Prototype for Real Time Regional Traffic Simulation and Signal Optimization – A case study in VISUM

Joe DeVore

KLJ

Citywide VISTRO Modeling for Rural Metropolitan Areas (Dickinson, ND)

Arsalan Effendi

VHB

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Concept Plan Analysis - Study of Conceptual Layouts and Managed Use Policies for a Consolidated Bus Curb Loading Operation Strategies in the Airport Environment

Benjamin Loeb

DVRPC