Transportation Planning

Lecture 1: An Introduction to Transportation

Planning

CA by Assist. Prof. Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Ph.D in Rail Transit System Planning and Design
The Module Syllabus:

Lecture 1- Introduction to Transport Planning

Lecture 2- Definition of Study Area
Lecture 3-Transport Related Land Use-Models
Lecture 4-Data Collection and Evaluation of Existing transport Systems
Lecture 5- Travel Demand Estimation Modelling –Four Step Model
Lecture 6-Trip Generation
Lecture 7-Trip Distribution
Lecture 8-9- Modal Choice
Lecture 10-11- Route Choice and Assignment
Lecture 12- Evaluation and Cost Benefit Analysis

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Definition of Transportation Planning

Transportation planning is a systematic and

comprehensive process that aims to efficiently and
sustainably meet the mobility needs of communities and
regions. It involves analyzing, forecasting, and designing
transportation systems to enhance accessibility, safety, and
the overall quality of life for residents.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 The Objectives of Transportation Planning

1
Enhancing Mobility
Transportation planning holds Improving connectivity and accessibility for all residents, ensuring

paramount importance for cities to efficient movement of people and goods.

connect people and move goods safely, 2 Promoting Safety

efficiently and sustainably while Designing transportation systems and infrastructure to reduce
accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
mitigating environmental consequences
and promoting economic development. 3 Environmental Sustainability
Minimizing the environmental impact of transportation activities
through eco-friendly modes and technologies.

4 Economic Viability
Supporting economic development by providing reliable and efficient
transportation options that facilitate trade, commerce, and job access.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 The Scope of Transportation Planning
Focusing on strategic integration and environmental sustainability, transportation planning aims to create a
comprehensive and connected roadmap for various modes of transportation.

Multimodal Integration Land Use Integration Environmental Considerations

Coordinating the use of Aligned with urban and regional Evaluating the ecological impact of
transportation modes to development to support compact transportation systems and
establish a seamless network and mixed-use communities, focusing on sustainable alternatives
across regions and bring ease resulting in a reduction of long- to reduce the environmental
to the daily commute. distance travel. footprint.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Policy Framework in Transportation Planning

Transportation policy refers to a set of guidelines, regulations, and

principles that govern transportation planning, infrastructure
development, and operation.

It provides a strategic framework for decision-making, ensuring a

coordinated and sustainable approach to transportation.

In transportation planning, policy frameworks play a vital role in

shaping the direction and regulations that govern the development and
operation of transportation systems.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 The Importance of Transportation Policy

1 Strategic Direction 2 Mobility Optimization

• Policies shape the strategic direction of
• Policies aim to enhance efficiency by
transportation planning, guiding decisions
minimizing congestion and optimizing mobility
on infrastructure investment, operation, and
for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and
maintenance.
motorists.

3 Environmental Conservation 4 Equity and Accessibility

• Policies help achieve sustainability goals • Policies promote equitable access to

by balancing transportation needs with transportation services, ensuring that all
environmental conservation, promoting community members can conveniently and
eco-friendly modes of transport. safely access essential destinations.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Stakeholder Involvement and Collaboration

• Successful policy development requires collaboration between

government agencies, private sector entities, and community
organizations.
• Involving diverse stakeholders, policies can address the needs and
concerns of different groups, enhancing their effectiveness and
acceptance.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 Challenges in Implementing and Enforcing Policy Frameworks

• Resistance to change from stakeholders accustomed to existing practices can

hinder policy implementation.
• Inadequate resources, funding, and political support can also pose significant
challenges in enforcing policy frameworks.

The Importance of Regularly Reviewing and Updating Policy

Frameworks

• Regular review ensures that policy frameworks remain relevant and aligned
with evolving transportation needs and societal priorities.
• Updating policies allows for the integration of new technologies, emerging
trends, and best practices to improve transportation systems
CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed
Transportation Planning Period

Transportation planning is usually classified into two categories by

planning period. They differ in their nature, types of objects and
characteristics.
1. Short-Range Planning: encompasses projects and measures that
can be implemented in 3-5 , some times 8 years and usually do not
involve major investments and infrastructure construction projects.
short range planning may include service schedules, purchase of new
vehicles, modification of existing or opening new lines and networks.
Short range planning is not directly focused on long-range
developments, except that there should be a check that short-range
plans are compatible with long-range ones

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Transportation Planning Period

2. Long-Range Planning: consists of planning of major

infrastructure objects, lines, networks and similar facilities.
Long range plans may involve large investments, constructing
a new rail lines, network or major transit terminals, installing
a new signal system, introducing various ITS technologies ,
construction or development of new vehicle types. The
planning horizon may be 10-25 years.

Long-Range Planning is usually reviewed in certain time intervals such as every 5 years, and revised or modified if
some changes have occurred.
In some cases, Medium-Range Planning refers to projects involving moderate investments and an implementation
period of 5-10 years.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Requirements for Transport Planning
There are three main requirements for transport planning :

1 Continuing
Continuing specifies that the planning process ongoing, frequently
evaluating and updating the transit plan to reflect changes in the urban
area.

2 Cooperative
Cooperative is defined as the need for coordination not only between
the various levels of government but also among individual agencies at
the same level.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Requirements for Transport Planning

3 Comprehensive

Comprehensive is more precise than that of the previous two terms, it

Should:

• Include the whole system (network) rather than individual lines or

route only.

• Incorporate all modes of transportation, i.e., public and private,

passenger and freight, etc.

• Include not only technical and economic (cost) factors, but also
related elements, such as social, and environmental factors and urban
form.

• Cover the entire metropolitan area, which represents a functional

system. CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed
 Data-Driven Decision Making in Transportation Planning

• Data collection and analysis provide critical insights for making informed transportation decisions.

Why Data is Vital for Transportation Planning

Efficiency 🚗 Sustainability 🌱 Safety ⛑️

Accurate data leads to better By analyzing data, transportation Transportation planners can use

decision-making, saving time planners can design solutions that data to identify high-risk areas

and money in the long term. reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and prioritize safety
promote public transit, and reduce improvements to keep drivers,
traffic congestion. cyclists, and pedestrians safe.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 Data Collection Techniques

Surveys GPS tracking Remote Sensing Big Data Analytics

Transportation planners use GPS tracking allows Remote sensing technologies Transportation planners leverage
surveys to collect transportation planners to like aerial and satellite imagery emerging Big Data analytics tools
demographic and trip gather accurate and real-time help planners to collect vast to collect, process and analyze a
information from residents, data on traffic flow, travel data on land use, traffic wide range of digital data sets like
travelers and businesses to times, and vehicle movements volume, and road network social media feeds, sensor data,
inform transportation on specific routes. alignments. and traffic-camera footage to
planning and policy decisions. support transportation planning
decisions.
 Challenges in Implementing Data-Driven Decision
Making in Transportation Planning

• Limited funding
• Insufficient technical capacity of staff
• Data privacy concerns
• Difficulty integrating datasets from multiple sources
• Traditional planning processes and practices that can be
resistant to change

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Advanced Transportation Planning Modeling

Travel Demand Modeling:

Estimating travel patterns, mode Analyzing traffic behavior and flow

choices, and route assignments to dynamics to optimize roadway design
predict future transportation needs. and traffic management strategies.

Land Use and Transport Interaction Models:

Integrating land use planning with transportation planning to create more

sustainable and efficient urban environments.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Sustainable Transportation Practices

Sustainable transportation practices refer to methods of moving

people and goods that aim to minimize their impact on the
environment, conserve energy, promote economic viability, and
ensure social equity. These practices are designed to reduce the
negative environmental, social, and economic consequences
associated with traditional modes of transportation, such as
personal vehicles powered by fossil fuels.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

The Importance of Sustainable Transportation

1 Environmental 2 Economic Benefits 💰 3 Social Benefits 🌍

Benefits 🌿
Sustainable transportation
Sustainable transportation By reducing reliance on
improves public health,
reduces air pollution, fossil fuels and promoting
enhances mobility options,
greenhouse gas emissions, energy-efficient
and promotes equitable
and helps combat climate transportation, sustainable
access to transportation
change. practices can save money
services.
and create jobs.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Types of Sustainable Transportation

Cycling and Walking 🚴♀️🚶♂️ Public Transportation 🚇 Electric Vehicles ⚡️

Promoting active transportation Efficient and accessible, public EVs offer zero-emission

helps improve public health, transportation reduces traffic transportation, reduces

reduce pollution, and create congestion and carbon emissions dependence on fossil fuels, and

vibrant, pedestrian-friendly while offering affordable mobility plays a crucial role in achieving a

communities. options. sustainable future.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed
 Challenges and Solutions for Sustainable Transportation

1 Infrastructure Challenges 🚧

Building and maintaining sustainable transportation

Financial Challenges 💸 2
infrastructure, such as bike lanes and charging
Funding sustainable transportation stations, is essential for widespread adoption.
initiatives can be a challenge, but
investment in infrastructure and incentives 3 Policy and Regulation
Challenges 📜
can help overcome financial barriers.
Creating supportive policies and regulations that
Innovative Solutions 💡 4 incentivize sustainable transportation and discourage
New technologies, ride-sharing platforms, car-centric practices is crucial.
and smart transportation systems provide
innovative solutions to overcome
sustainability challenges.
CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)

and Technology Integration

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) encompass a suite of

technologies and solutions that aim to enhance the efficiency,
safety, and sustainability of transportation systems through the
integration of various information and communication
technologies.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 Benefits of ITS

1 Improved Traffic Flow: ITS optimizes traffic flow, reducing

congestion and travel times for a smoother driving experience.

2 Enhanced Safety: By providing real-time information, ITS can

alert drivers to potential hazards and help prevent accidents.

3 Environmental Sustainability: ITS promotes eco-friendly

practices such as intelligent traffic signal control and electric
vehicle charging infrastructure.

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Types of ITS Applications

Traffic Signal Control Systems

Automated systems that optimize traffic
signal timings to improve traffic flow and
reduce delays.

Variable Message Signs

Digital signs that provide real-time
information to drivers, such as traffic
conditions, detours, and public safety
messages.

Traffic Surveillance Systems Incident Management Systems

Cameras and sensors that monitor traffic Real-time monitoring and response systems that help manage
behavior and provide data for analysis accidents, emergencies, and road incidents effectively.
and planning.
CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed
Challenges and Limitations

1 Initial Cost of Implementing ITS

Adopting ITS technologies can require significant investment in
infrastructure and equipment.

2 Integration with Existing Infrastructure

Integrating ITS into already established transportation systems can pose

technical challenges and require careful planning.

3 Privacy Concerns
The collection and use of personal data in ITS raise privacy concerns that need
to be addressed with appropriate safeguards.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 Case Studies of Successful ITS Implementation

New York City Singapore Los Angeles

Implementation of ITS The Intelligent Transport System ITS technologies, including
technologies, such as adaptive (ITS) in Singapore has effectively dynamic message signs and traffic
traffic signal control, resulted managed traffic by integrating surveillance, have improved traffic
in a 10-15% reduction in travel multiple systems like traffic management and reduced delays
times and a decrease in signal control and real-time on major highways and arterial
congestion. incident management. roads.
CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed
Environmental Considerations and Transportation
Planning

Environmental considerations in transportation planning involve

assessing and addressing the potential impacts of transportation projects
and systems on the natural environment. This process is critical for
designing and implementing transportation solutions that are sustainable
and minimize harm to ecosystems, air quality, water resources, and overall
environmental health. Here are some key aspects of environmental
considerations in transportation planning:

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Environmental Considerations and Transportation Planning

1. Ecosystem Impact: Assessing effects on habitats and biodiversity.

2. Air Quality and Emissions: Managing vehicle emissions and air pollution.
3. Noise Pollution: Minimizing transportation-related noise levels.
4. Water Quality and Runoff: Preventing water pollution from infrastructure.
5. Hazardous Materials: Safely transporting dangerous substances.
6. Energy Efficiency: Promoting fuel efficiency and sustainable energy.
7. Climate Change: Mitigating emissions and adapting to impacts.
8. Land Use Integration: Harmonizing transportation with development.
9. Cultural Preservation: Protecting historical and cultural sites.
10. Social Equity: Ensuring fairness in transportation benefits.
11. Mitigation Measures: Implementing strategies to offset negative impacts.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs)
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are crucial tools used in decision-making processes for various projects, including
transportation, infrastructure, and industrial developments. These assessments help evaluate the potential environmental
effects of proposed actions and provide valuable information for making informed decisions. Here are some key tools
commonly used in Environmental Impact Assessments:

1. Checklists and Questionnaires: These are structured lists of questions and criteria used to systematically identify
potential environmental impacts. They serve as a starting point for assessing various aspects such as air quality, water
resources, biodiversity, and social impacts.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs)

2. GIS (Geographic Information Systems): GIS is a powerful tool for spatial analysis. It allows for the mapping and
visualization of environmental data, helping to identify sensitive areas, habitats, and potential impacts based on
geographical information.

3. Air Quality Modeling Software: This software simulates how pollutants disperse in the atmosphere. It helps predict
air quality impacts and allows for the evaluation of potential emissions from transportation and industrial sources.
4. Noise Modeling and Simulation Tools: These tools estimate and visualize noise levels in different scenarios. They
help in assessing the potential noise pollution caused by transportation or industrial activities.

5. Hydrological and Hydraulic Modeling: These models are used to predict how water flows through a particular area.
They are essential for evaluating potential impacts on water bodies, flood risks, and the effectiveness of drainage and
runoff management.

5. Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI) Maps: ESI maps are used to identify areas that are particularly sensitive to
environmental disturbances. They provide a visual representation of areas that require special attention and protection.

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Case Studies of Successful Environmental Transportation Planning Projects

Curitiba BRT, Brazil Copenhagen Cycling Portland Streetcar, USA

Infrastructure, Denmark
The Curitiba Bus Rapid Transit Copenhagen's cycling-friendly The Portland Streetcar connects
system transformed urban infrastructure and policies have key neighborhoods, reducing car
mobility, prioritizing efficient and made it one of the most bicycle- dependency and encouraging
sustainable public transportation. friendly cities in the world. public transit use.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 Future Trends and Emerging Technologies in

Transportation Planning
Future trends and emerging technologies play a crucial role in shaping
the way people and goods are moved efficiently and sustainably. The
following are some key trends and technologies that are influencing
transportation planning:

1 . Electric Vehicles 🚗

The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), including cars, buses, and bikes,
is a major trend in transportation planning. This involves establishing
charging infrastructure and developing policies to promote EV adoption

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 2. Autonomous Vehicles and Connected Vehicles

The development of self-driving cars and connected

vehicle technologies has the potential to transform
transportation systems by reducing accidents, congestion,
and improving overall efficiency.

3. High-Speed Rail and Hyperloop

High-Speed Rail (HSR) is a mode of rail transport that operates significantly faster than traditional rail services, often
exceeding speeds of 186 miles per hour (300 kilometers per hour) on dedicated tracks. It offers a sustainable and efficient
alternative for medium to long-distance travel.

Hyperloop is a proposed mode of high-speed ground transportation in which passenger pods travel through a low-
pressure tube at very high speeds, propelled either by magnetic levitation or a combination of magnetic and air
propulsion systems. The goal of Hyperloop is to achieve extremely high speeds, potentially exceeding 700 miles per hour
(1100 kilometers per hour).
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Examples of High Speed Rail and Hyperloop Systems

Shinkansen (Bullet Train) - Japan:

• Speed: Up to 320 km/h (199 mph)
• Ridership: over 400 million passengers annually
• Connections: Extensive network linking major Japanese cities
• Length: Approximately 2,765 km (1,718 miles)

TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse)-France:

• Speed: Up to 320 km/h (199 mph)
• Ridership: over 120 million passengers annually.
• Connections: Links major French cities and extends into
neighboring countries
• Length: Approximately 2,800 km (1,740 miles) as of 2022

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 Examples of High Speed Rail and Hyperloop Systems

Abu Dhabi Hyperloop

• Speed: The proposed speed is around 1,200 km/h
• Connections: connects Abu Dhabi to other cities in the UAE,
such as Dubai, in a matter of minutes.

USA Hyperloop:
• Speed: The proposed speed is around 1,000 km/h
• Connections: Connects major cities across the United States,
potentially revolutionizing long-distance travel.

• Please note that specific annual ridership figures and lengths for the Abu Dhabi Hyperloop and the USA Hyperloop were
not available. These hyperloop projects were still in the conceptual or early testing phases and had not yet entered full-
scale commercial operation. For more information, please refer to the following links:
CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed
Examples of High Speed Rail and Hyperloop Systems

• Kindly explore the following YouTube

links for additional insights into the
Hyperloop system

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_isTbHTUQck&ab_channel=DubaiFuture

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcikLQZI5wQ&ab_channel=TheB1M

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

 4. Mobility as a Service (MaaS)

MaaS integrates various modes of transportation (public transit, ride-sharing, bike-sharing, etc.) into a unified, user-
centric service, providing seamless travel options and reducing reliance on personal vehicles.

Case Studies of Successful MaaS Implementations

Citywide B ike Sharing R ide-Hailing Services Smart Parking Solutions

Successful implementation of bike- Platforms like Uber and Lyft have Integration of smart parking
sharing programs in major cities has revolutionized urban mobility, technologies has improved parking
increased accessibility and reduced providing convenient and on-demand availability and reduced traffic
reliance on private vehicles. transportation options. congestion in urban areas.
 5. Urban Air Mobility and Drone Integration

Definition
Urban Air Mobility (UAM) refers to the integration of air
transportation systems into urban environments.

Key Features
UAM utilizes electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft
for short-distance flights within urban areas.

Potential Benefits
Reduced traffic congestion, faster commute times, and improved
accessibility to remote areas.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

How Drones Can Integrate into Existing Transportation
Infrastructure

1 Last-Mile Delivery
Drones can be used for efficient and quick delivery of goods,
reducing the reliance on traditional transportation methods.

2 Aerial Inspections
Drones enable aerial inspections of infrastructure, such as bridges
and power lines, improving safety and reducing costs.

3 Traffic Monitoring
Drones equipped with advanced sensors can provide real-time traffic
data, assisting in congestion management.
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 Figures of Urban Air Mobility and Drone Integration

Projected Growth Delivery Efficiency Infrastructure Maint. Traffic Management

The global Urban Air Drones can significantly Drones perform aerial Drones provide real-time
Mobility market is projected reduce delivery times, inspections, reducing costs traffic data, aiding in
to reach $86.8 billion by allowing for quick and and increasing efficiency in effective traffic
2026. efficient transportation of infrastructure management strategies.
goods. maintenance.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Benefits and Drawbacks of Urban Air Mobility and Drone
Integration

Benefits Drawbacks
• Reduced traffic congestion • Airspace management challenges
• Faster transportation • Privacy concerns
• Improved accessibility • Security risks
• Environmental sustainability • Regulatory complexities

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

Case Studies of Successful Implementation of Urban Air Mobility and
Drone Integration
Volocopter in Singapore

Singapore is testing autonomous flying taxis for short-distance

urban transportation, providing a glimpse into the future of
UAM.
https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=QhNJ UyT 3HI8&ab_ channel=CNA

Drone Delivery in Rwanda

Rwanda successfully implemented drone delivery services for

medical supplies in remote areas, improving accessibility and
saving lives.

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Case Studies of Successful Implementation of Urban Air Mobility and
Drone Integration

UPS Flight Forward in the US

UPS is utilizing drones for package delivery and

expanding its service to more locations, enhancing
delivery efficiency.

EHang Air Taxi in China

EHang conducted successful manned tests of its

autonomous air taxi, showcasing the potential of UAM
in densely populated cities.

https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=XTJ DkS mDf_ s&ab_ channel=ChinaDailyDOCS

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International Perspectives in Transportation
Planning
Refers to the study and consideration of transportation systems,
policies, and practices across different countries or regions around
the world. This field of study aims to understand how transportation
planning is approached, regulated, and executed in various
international contexts. It encompasses a range of topics related to the
movement of people and goods within and between different
geographic areas.

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International Perspectives in Transportation
Planning
The are the key aspects of International Perspectives in
Transportation Planning:
1. Multimodal Transportation: Integration and coordination of
various modes of transportation such as road, rail, air, sea, and
non-motorized modes like walking and cycling.
2. Policy and Regulation: Understanding the policies and
regulations governing transportation, including safety standards,
environmental regulations, licensing requirements, and pricing
mechanisms.
3. Infrastructure Development: Planning, design, and
construction of transportation infrastructure like roads, bridges,
airports, ports, and public transit systems.
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 International Perspectives in Transportation
Planning
4. Environmental Considerations: Addressing the environmental impact
of transportation, including efforts to reduce emissions and promote
sustainable transportation modes.
5. Urban Planning and Land Use: Examining how transportation planning
is integrated with urban planning and how cities are designed in relation to
transportation networks.
6. Economic and Social Impacts: Analyzing how transportation systems
influence economic development, accessibility, and social equity within a
region or country.
7. Technological Advancements: Understanding the integration of
emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles, electric transportation,
and smart transportation systems.
CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed
International Perspectives in Transportation
Planning
8. Public Participation and Stakeholder Engagement: Involving the
public and various stakeholders in the transportation planning process.
9. Cross-Border and International Transport: Planning and coordination
of transportation systems that cross international borders.
10. Case Studies and Best Practices: Learning from successful
transportation projects and policies in different countries.
11. Political and Cultural Considerations: Recognizing how political
systems, cultural norms, and societal values influence transportation
planning approaches.

CA Dr. Chro H. Ahmed

"Transportation is the center of the world! It is
the glue of our daily lives." - Robin Chase

THANKS

Dr. Chro H. Ahmed