Traffic Analysis Toolbox Volume V:

Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies—

Benefits and Application

PUBLICATION NO. FHWA-HOP-06-005 November 2004

Office of Operations

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590
Foreword Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

Foreword 

“Traffic analysis tools” is a collective term used to describe a variety of softwarebased analytical procedures and methodologies that support different aspects of 

traffic and transportation analyses. Traffic analysis tools include methodologies 

such as sketch-planning, travel demand modeling, traffic signal optimization, and 

traffic simulation. The purpose of this document is to give the reader a summary 

of real world case studies that demonstrate the benefits of using traffic analysis 

tools for the project. 

This document serves as the final installment of the Traffic Analysis Toolbox, but 

serves as a document that can be used with decision makers to support the 

transportation professional. . Other volumes currently in the toolbox include: 

Volume I: Traffic Analysis Tools Primer, Volume II: Decision Support 

Methodology for Selecting Traffic Analysis Tools and Volume III: Guidelines for 

Applying Traffic Microsimulation Modeling Software. 

The intended audience for this report is the transportation professional or manager 

who needs a high-level introduction into the role of traffic analysis tools in the 

transportation analysis process. 

Jeffery A. Lindley, P.E. 

Director 

Office of Transportation Management 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 1 

Notice 

This document is disseminated under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Transportation 

in the interest of information exchange. The U.S. Government assumes no liability for the use 

of the information contained in this document. 

The U.S. Government does not endorse products or manufacturers. Trademarks or 

manufacturers’ names appear in this report only because they are considered essential to the 

object of the document. 

Quality Assurance Statement 

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides high-quality information to serve 

Government, industry, and the public in a manner that promotes public understanding. 

Standards and policies are used to ensure and maximize the quality, objectivity, utility, and 

integrity of its information. FHWA periodically reviews quality issues and adjusts its programs 

and processes to ensure continuous quality improvement. 
Foreword Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

Technical Report Documentation Page 

1. Report No. 

FHWA-HOP-06-005 

2. Government Accession No. 3. Recipient's Catalog No. 

5. Report Date 

November 2004 

4. Title and Subtitle 

Traffic Analysis Toolbox 

Volume V: Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies - 

Benefits and Applications 6. Performing Organization Code 

7. Author(s) 

Principal Investigator: Wayne Kittelson, P.E. 

Co-Authors: Peter Koonce, Sonia Hennum, Sagar Onta, and 

Tim Luttrell 

8. Performing Organization Report 

No. 

Project 6115 

9. Performing Organization Name and Address 10. Work Unit No. (TRAIS) 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. (Lead Performing 

Organization) 

610 SW Alder Street, Suite 700 

Portland, OR 97205 U.S.A. 

Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) 

(Prime Contractor) 

1710 SAIC Drive 

McLean, VA 22102 

11. Contract or Grant No. 

DTFH61-01-C-00180 

13. Type of Report and Period 

Covered 

Informational Guide Book 

March 2004 to November 2004 

12. Sponsoring Agency Name and Address 

Federal Highway Administration 

Office of Operations, HOTM 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

14. Sponsoring Agency Code 

15. Supplementary Notes 

John Halkias and John Tolle were the Technical Representatives for the Federal Highway 

Administration. 

16. Abstract 

"Traffic analysis tools" is a collective term used to describe a variety of software-based 

analytical procedures and methodologies that support different aspects of traffic and 

transportation analyses. Traffic analysis tools include methodologies such as sketchplanning, travel demand modeling, traffic signal optimization, and traffic simulation. The 

purpose of this Traffic Analysis Toolbox is to give the reader a summary of real world case 

studies that demonstrate the benefits of using traffic analysis tools for the project. 

17. Key Word 

Traffic Analysis Tools 

18. Distribution Statement 

No Restrictions. 

19. Security Classif. (of 

this report) 

Unclassified 

20. Security Classif. (of 

this page) 

Unclassified 

21. No. of 

Pages 

28 

22. Price 

Form DOT F 1700.7 (8-72) Reproduction of completed page authorized

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 2 
1.0 Introduction Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

1.0 Introduction 

Traffic analysis is an essential and complex component of planning, building, 

and operating our transportation system infrastructure. There are many different 

analysis tools to aid in these analyses, each of which has been designed with a 

particular need in mind1. Used correctly, these tools provide answers in clear and 

sufficient detail to inform decision-makers about the likely effects, both positive 

and negative, of alternative solutions. The Traffic Analysis Toolbox helps you and 

your staff select the right tool for each job, so important investment decisions are 

made consistently and without delay. 

Read through the following pages to learn about real-world examples of what can 

be achieved when the analysis methods described in the Traffic Analysis Toolbox 

are correctly applied. Altogether, these case studies show how different types of 

tools have been effectively applied to the wide range of problems that confront 

every community and agency. You can use the chart below to find the type and 

level of analysis that is of most interest to you. 

 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 3 

1

 See, for example, Volume I: Traffic Analysis Tools Primer, available at 

http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/Travel/Traffic_Analysis_Tools/tat_vol1/default.htm , for an overview of 

the full range of traffic analysis tools available today. 
2.0 Community Benefits Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

2.0 Community Benefits 

A safe and efficient multimodal transportation system is important for assuring a 

strong and vibrant community. It is vital to economic development and quality of 

life. At the same time, the investment costs required to plan, build, manage, and 

maintain the necessary physical elements is very high. So it is important for 

elected officials and transportation decision-makers to have access to reliable, 

consistent, and clear information about system impacts when they are making 

choices between competing investment opportunities. 

A wide range of traffic analysis tools is available to 

assist in this purpose. But there is no clear guidance 

about how best to organize and use these tools in a 

way that reliably, consistently, and clearly supports 

the transportation decision-making process. The 

Traffic Analysis Toolbox, developed by the Federal 

Highway Administration, organizes these tools 

according to the types of problems and levels of 

analysis to which they are best suited so that the 

objectives of reliability, consistency, and clarity can 

be achieved. 

The case studies presented in Chapters 3, 4, and 5 document how various 

communities have solved real problems efficiently and effectively by applying 

available traffic analysis tools in the logical and efficient manner described in the 

Traffic Analysis Toolbox. Nine real-world experiences from across the United 

States show how application of the right traffic analysis tools at the right stage of 

the analysis saved time for both the projects and the engineers, identifying 

effective ways to maximize the capabilities of the existing physical infrastructure 

along the way and directing scarce investment dollars toward projects with the 

most community benefit: 

 Labor Hour Comparison

0

200

400

600

800

Sketch

Planning

HCM Method Simulation

T

otal Hours

 In Juneau, Alaska, sketch planning 

traffic analysis tools helped achieve 

community consensus by quickly 

and clearly highlighting the lane and 

interchange requirements associated 

with different alternatives. 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 4 
2.0 Community Benefits Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

 In Tualatin, Oregon, the right combination of Highway Capacity Manual 

methods and other analytical models identified a signal timing and road 

realignment strategy that saved millions of dollars in freeway interchange 

improvements while still accommodating the economic redevelopment of 

a nearby area. 

 In Lee County, Florida, the use of traffic 

optimization analysis tools resulted in new 

timing plans for over 100 signals that reduced 

average peak-hour delays by over 15 percent 

and saved motorists more than $9 million 

annually in time, fuel, and vehicle wear. 

Clearly, the right application of traffic analysis tools 

benefits not only the engineers and planners who use 

them, but also the communities and decision-makers 

they serve. The Traffic Analysis Toolbox includes an 

expert system to help make these choices: by answering 

a few questions about key project characteristics, the 

expert system will suggest the type of traffic analysis 

tool to get you to clear, complete, and consistent 

answers that are necessary for making sound transportation investment decisions 

in your community. What’s even better, this expert system is freely available from 

the Federal Highway Administration. It should be a part of every transportation 

agency’s toolbox, and it can be found at: 

http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/Travel/Traffic_Analysis_Tools/traffic_analysis_tools.htm

While other volumes of the Toolbox provide more specific guidance related to the 

technical aspects of selecting the right tool, this volume provides insight into the 

benefits achieved through identifying and using the appropriate traffic analysis 

procedures and tools. 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 5 
3.0 Regional Transportation Plans and Programs Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

3.0 Regional Transportation Plans and Programs 

Large-scale planning efforts will clearly benefit from using the right traffic 

analysis tools. The questions to be answered in these efforts are basic ones: should 

the roadway be treated as an expressway or an arterial? How many lanes will be 

required? What’s the best form of control for the intersections? Specially 

designed traffic analysis tools focus in on the answers to these questions without 

getting lost in the costly and time-consuming detail of operational and design 

considerations that will come later. Many such tools have been developed and can 

be effectively applied within the realms of sketch planning and travel demand 

modeling. The table below introduces two real-world case studies presented in the 

remainder of this chapter to demonstrate the benefits that can be achieved through 

the proper application of traffic analysis tools in regional transportation plans and 

programs. 

Type of Analysis Real-World Case Study 

3.1 Sketch Planning West Egan Drive Corridor Study 

Juneau, Alaska

3.2 Travel Demand Modeling 

City-Wide Transportation System 

Plan 

Tualatin, Oregon

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3.1 Sketch Planning Case Study—Corridor Refinement Study Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

3.1 Sketch Planning Case Study—Corridor 

Refinement Study 

Sketch planning traffic analysis tools are often used in regional transportation 

planning to analyze the impacts of regional growth trends on the transportation 

infrastructure. These tools can quickly and effectively evaluate the adequacy of 

roadway networks and intersections. As such, they also help in developing 

regional plans.

West Egan Drive Corridor Study - Juneau, AK 

Key Benefits 

 Clear and adequate information to formulate alternatives 

 Less engineering time required than for other types of 

analysis 

 Equal consideration of all stakeholder proposals to be 

specifically considered 

Other Considerations 

 Output from sketch planning analysis tools should be 

supplemented with other more detailed analysis procedures 

prior to final design and implementation concept design 

Minimum Data Required, Easy to Understand

Readily-available data were all that 

was necessary to apply the sketch 

planning traffic analysis tools. Model 

outputs were also very straightforward 

and easy to understand, resulting in 

consistent and effective communication 

of key findings with decisionmakers and 

Effective and Adequate Evaluation 

Juneau’s regional goal of 

balancing mobility with local 

access needs was more easily 

evaluated by using sketch 

planning traffic analysis tools, 

which are ideally-suited to a 

broad-level assessment of many 

individual intersections. A wide 

range of ideas and approaches 

was suggested by business 

owners, residents, and elected 

officials, and the sketch 

planning traffic analysis tools 

were used to quickly document 

the major impacts of each. 

By identifying likely areas of 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 7 
3.1 Sketch Planning Case Study—Corridor Refinement Study Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

The use of the sketch planning traffic analysis tools provides basic intersection 

volume-to-capacity ratios and planning level intersection operational results. 

With the help of these tools, numerous alternatives can be analyzed quickly and 

cost effectively. This allows alternatives to be discarded early in the process, with 

more concentrated efforts of analysis on the most viable alternative. Hence, these 

traffic analysis tools ensure efficient use of limited project resources. 

Stayed on Schedule 

Use of the sketch planning 

traffic analysis tool 

reduced the time necessary 

to select viable 

alternatives for more 

detailed analysis. As a 

result, the project was able 

to meet important deadlines 

0

4

8

12

16

20

Sketch

Planning

HCM Method Simulation

Time to Complete 

(weeks)

Assisted in Decision Making 

Process 

Juneau’s staff were able to 

screen alternatives on the 

basis of the sketch planning 

traffic analysis results by 

considering the 

effectiveness of the 

proposed alternative in 

conjunction with the 

anticipated costs. The 

infeasible alternatives from 

a cost or objective 

standpoint were discarded 

throughout the process 

before more detailed 

analysis was completed. More 

detailed evaluation was 

undertaken only after four 

i bl lt ti

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 8 
3.2 Travel Demand Modeling Case Study – Regional Plan Refinement Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

3.2 Travel Demand Modeling Case Study – Regional 

Plan Refinement 

A regional travel demand model was used to help create a blueprint for the future 

transportation system in Tualatin, Oregon. Travel demand models are especially 

useful for this kind of activity because they take clear and direct account of the 

key factors that can be managed and controlled – population, employment, land 

use, and system characteristics. Alternative growth visions for the community 

were evaluated according to their impacts on congestion and quality of service. 

Transportation System Plan (TSP) - Tualatin, OR 

Key Benefits 

 Predicted how Tualatin’s transportation system will be 

affected by land use, demographics, and system improvements. 

 Documented and quantified the benefits of future improvements. 

Other Considerations 

 This type of model should be regularly updated and calibrated. 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 9 
3.2 Travel Demand Modeling Case Study – Regional Plan Refinement Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

Travel demand models can also be used to predict the traffic-related effects of 

alternative transportation policies and projections. Their ability to quantify the 

impacts of a particular policy or proposed improvement on congestion, 

infrastructure investment requirements, access to all modes, and quality-of-life 

issues can help to inform the decision-making that leads to the final adopted plan. 

Travel demand models do not work at a level of detail that is sufficient to design 

and construct the identified improvements, but they provide the essential input 

other traffic analysis tools will need when the design effort is underway. 

Subarea Analyses 

Tualatin needed to conduct a more 

detailed evaluation of several 

subareas within the city where zone 

changes were being contemplated. 

The travel demand forecasting model 

was used to “window in“ on these 

subareas for a more refined 

analysis. Using this technique, the 

City was able to evaluate the local 

Informed decision makers 

Tualatin’s key decision-makers 

(City Council and Planning 

Commission) were kept updated 

through regular briefings that 

included colorful graphics 

from the travel demand model, 

showing the effects of various 

policy options on key 

performance measures like 

roadway volume and congestion 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 10 
4.0 Project Development Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

4.0 Project Development 

A wider range of tools with more detailed output capabilities is needed when 

transportation-related projects move into the development stage. Here, the focus is 

usually on geometric considerations, operational characteristics, or both. The 

practitioner will need access to a variety of analysis tools depending on accuracy 

and display-ability requirements of the audience. Many such tools have been 

developed and can be effectively applied within the realms of sketch planning, 

design/operational analyses, and even simulation. The table below introduces 

three real-world case studies used in the remainder of this chapter to demonstrate 

benefits that can be achieved through proper application of these tools in project 

development environments. 

Type of Analysis Real-World Case Study 

4.1 Sketch Planning 

Carman/Quarry/Meadows 

Intersection Layout and 

Roundabout Analysis 

Lake Oswego, Oregon

4.2 Operational/Design 

Evaluation 

Bridgeport Village Shopping 

Center Development 

Tualatin, Oregon

4.3 Simulation Analysis and 

Display 

K Street Busway Transit 

Alternatives Analysis 

Washington, DC

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 11 
4.1 Sketch Planning Case Study – Intersection Layout and Roundabout Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

4.1 Sketch Planning Case Study – Intersection 

Layout and Roundabout Analysis 

Sketch planning traffic analysis tools were used to develop design alternatives to 

address both operational and safety issues at the Carman/Quarry/Meadows 

intersection in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Using only basic turning volume 

information, the tools predicted the number and configuration of lanes required 

for different types of intersection control. This approach saved substantial time 

and money, and laid the groundwork for the final design activities. 

Carman/Quarry/Meadows Intersection – Lake Oswego, OR

Key Benefits 

 Data required is minimal and readily available in most cases 

 Allowed for the consideration of multiple alternatives in a 

time and cost efficient manner 

Other Considerations 

 Sketch planning products can give decision makers an 

understanding of the big picture, even though modifications 

and greater detail is sometimes necessary through detailed 

design. 

Context Appropriate Alternatives 

The neighborhood and adjacent 

property owner’s key concerns were 

focused on environmental, 

accessibility, livability, and 

safety issues, as opposed to pure 

intersection traffic operations. 

As such, consideration of the 

surrounding system, and adjacent 

land uses was required to develop 

Designing the Intersection 

Sketch planning of intersection 

improvements helped the public 

visualize the various scenarios 

being considered for improving 

safety at an all-way stop 

controlled intersection. The 

sketches illustrated specific 

impacts to adjacent properties 

and were the first step towards 

identifying a preferred 

Study 

Intersecti

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 12 
4.1 Sketch Planning Case Study – Intersection Layout and Roundabout Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

 Aerial photograph 

 Existing right-of-way limits 

Minimum Data Required 

Sketch planning allows for efficient 

development and comparison of 

project alternatives, given the 

minimal data and effort required. 

Typically, it is only necessary to 

use: 

Relative Outputs 

With this basic data, the sketch 

planning tool can determine: 

 Basic geometric layouts 

 Magnitude of right-of-way needs 

 Property/environmental impacts 

 Relative assessment of established 

evaluation criteria 

Time Effectiveness 

Sketch planning facilitated the 

alternatives evaluation and decision 

making process in a time efficient 

manner: 

 By reducing the initial effort 

involved, the decision on the 

preferred alternative was 

completed in minimal time 

 For each alternative, potentially 

fatal feasibility issues were 

identified before significant time

0

2

4

6

8

Time in 

Months

With Sketch

Planning

Without Sketch

Planning

Time to Complete Project Design

 By minimizing the number of alternatives taken to refined 

evaluation and design, there was a cost savings of approximately 

35% in engineering and design fees.

Cost Effectiveness 

 The sketch planning tool saved engineering time as unpromising 

alternatives were identified and discarded in the early stages of 

evaluation, without requiring detailed examination or refinement to 

final stages of design implementation 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 13 
4.2 Operational/Design Case Study – Traffic Impact Study Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

4.2 Operational/Design Case Study – Traffic Impact 

Study 

In the project development process, HCM and/or other analytical methods 

provide the kind of detailed analysis that is needed to make decisions such as 

required number of travel lanes at intersections, length of queue storage required 

for each turning movement based on signal timing assumptions, and assorted 

other details. The detailed analysis helps provide the technical support for a list of 

improvements required for project development. 

Bridgeport Village Shopping Center Development, Tualatin, OR 

Key Benefits 

 Estimated the impact of the development on the transportation 

network 

 Considered the physical layout of improvements in concert with 

the analytical analysis lead to a comprehensive solution. 

Other Considerations 

 These procedures require an iterative approach regarding 

assumptions for design and operations 

Adequacy of Analysis 

In the Bridgeport Village 

project, a 466,000 sq. ft. 

mixed use development 

located adjacent to a 

congested interchange was 

being considered. The 

analytical method provided 

outputs that were adequate 

for evaluation of the 

impact of the 

alternatives. 

The analytical method 

evaluated the delay

(level-of-service), 

capacity (volume-tocapacity ratio) and 

queuing (95th-precentile 

queue estimates) at the 

intersections and met the

Cost and Time Effective 

Various single and 

double line drawings 

were used to evaluate 

alignment alternatives 

and help focus the 

analytical analyses. 

Queue interactions 

between closely spaced 

intersections were 

carefully scrutinized in 

the analytical models, 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 14 
4.2 Operational/Design Case Study – Traffic Impact Study Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

The analytical method can be data intensive and costly if numerous alternatives 

with different volumes, geometry and signal timing scenarios are to be analyzed. 

Significant time and budget can be saved if only the most viable alternatives are 

analyzed in detail. 

Queue Interaction The HCM procedures are 

insufficient for 

addressing issues related 

to closely spaced 

signalized intersections, 

and so additional 

modeling of queue 

interaction was used to 

confirm assumptions used 

Improved Understanding 

The Bridgeport Village 

project benefited from 

the full range of output 

capabilities that were 

available. Standard 

tabular output served to 

document analysis results 

and quantify key design 

parameters that would be 

necessary in the 

subsequent design effort. 

Visual animation was 

useful to both the 

engineers (who used it to 

confirm the 

reasonableness of input 

dt) d t th

Pedestrian Consideration The HCM procedures 

address issues related to 

pedestrian timing needs 

at signalized 

intersections, which is 

an often-overlooked 

issue. In this case, 

pedestrian timing needs 

were included in the 

analysis and calculated

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 15 
4.3 Traffic Simulation Model Case Study—Transit Alternatives Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

4.3 Traffic Simulation Model Case Study—Transit 

Alternatives Analysis 

The K Street Busway Study assessed a proposed busway that included transit 

service planning and detailed simulation analysis. Simulation was used to 

determine the effects of street reconstruction on all modes, to contrast the 

alternatives, and to determine a recommended solution that met the City’s 

policies. 

Clear communication of the project 

The busway provided exclusive 

right-of-way for buses throughout 

the corridor. Animation was used 

to communicate the nature of the 

changes to the corridor to the 

public. Project engineers 

indicate that the visualization 

significantly improved project

Assessment of alternatives 

The project evaluated 

alternatives to improve 

the person carrying 

capacity for the K 

Street corridor in 

Washington, D.C. Transit 

service alternatives 

were tested to insure 

the person carrying 

capacity of the busway 

was maximized and the 

 Detailed information is needed on design and operational 

characteristics 

 Efficient communication of project outcomes to stakeholders 

and decision makers 

Other Considerations 

K Street Busway - Washington D.C 

Key Benefits 

 Evaluation of impacts on all modes over several scenarios 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 16 
4.3 Traffic Simulation Model Case Study—Transit Alternatives Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

Microsimulation can assess a much wider range of issues present in the corridor 

including effects to general automobile traffic, pedestrians, and existing and 

proposed bus service. This allows for decisions to be made while considering all 

modes. 

Another important dimension of this project is the complexity of the analyses that 

was performed. As a dense urban area, pedestrian interaction throughout the 

boulevard required careful consideration of the interaction of pedestrians and 

vehicle movements that are rarely encountered. 

Pedestrian Interaction 

Pedestrian interaction 

within the boulevard 

was carefully 

considered in the 

project because access 

to transit was 

important to the 

public. Pedestrian 

accessibility to 

transit was an 

important element in 

th j t th t

Sufficient analysis of a 

boulevard 

A boulevard is a complex 

confluence of movements 

(traffic and otherwise), 

which could not be 

effectively analyzed using 

the HCM procedure for urban 

streets. Elements of sketch 

planning methods were used 

to determine appropriate 

treatments of signal 

priority, but the simulation 

Microsimulation 

Microsimulation provided an 

output for assessing the 

capacity of a busway under 

a variety of scenarios, 

which lead to modifications 

to a transit service plan 

and transportation capacity 

calculations.

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 17 
4.3 Traffic Simulation Model Case Study—Transit Alternatives Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 18 
5.0 Operational Assessments Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

5.0 Operational Assessments 

Traffic analysis tools that can answer detailed operational questions should be in 

the toolbox of any practitioner who needs to get the most in capacity and 

performance out of the existing system. The answers these tools provide can 

guide the engineer and system owner toward effective solutions where expensive 

and significant changes to the system are just not possible. They do this by 

answering the detailed questions that usually control individual operational 

decisions: what signal phasing strategy will maximize capacity and minimize 

queuing? How is a tolling/inspection station best operated to maximize its 

throughput? Can an arterial signal system promote transit ridership and still meet 

the needs of other road users? What can be done to increase average travel speeds 

in an entire surface street network without building new roads or making any 

major physical improvements? A complete range of proven and fully-tested tools 

has been developed, and which one to use in any particular situation depends on 

the characteristics of the problem. The table below presents four case studies that 

show how some of these tools were used in real-world situations to improve 

performance and quality of service without the need for significant new 

infrastructure investments. 

Type of Analysis Real-World Case Study 

5.1 Sketch Planning Interchange Analysis 

Eugene, Oregon

5.2 HCM/Analytical Models Queuing Analysis 

Ft. Hood, Texas

5.3 Simulation Models 

Transit Signal Priority 

Evaluation 

Portland, Oregon

5.4 Traffic Optimization Signal Timing Plan 

Ft. Myers, Florida

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 19 
5.1 Sketch Planning Case Study – Interchange Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

5.1 Sketch Planning Case Study – Interchange 

Analysis 

A sketch planning traffic analysis tool can be an effective way to resolve signal 

timing issues at interchanges. This type of tool does not need an extensive amount 

of input data, and can be used to quickly and effectively evaluate such things as 

phase sequencing, number of approach lanes, and lane configuration at the 

signalized intersections. 

 Quickly identified the reason for long queues and the range of 

possible solutions 

 Used data that is readily available and easy to collect 

 Reduced analysis time by 50-70% compared to a standard 

operational analysis procedure 

Other Considerations 

 This type of traffic analysis tool provides an overall 

assessment of intersection operation (under-, near-, or overcapacity), but does not estimate the intersection level-ofservice. 

Coburg Interchange – Eugene, OR

Key Benefits 

Proposed 

New Signal 

Existing 

Signal 

Closely spaced signals lead to 

queue spillback 

The proposed new signal 

needed to be connected and 

coordinated to the existing 

signal system without 

introducing queuing or cycle 

failures. The sketch 

planning traffic analysis 

tool was used to design a 

phasing plan and lane 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 20 
5.1 Sketch Planning Case Study – Interchange Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

Sketch-planning traffic analysis tools only need data that are almost always 

readily available: hourly movement volumes, number of approach lanes, and lane 

control. Even though sketch-planning traffic analysis tools are not detailed 

enough to use in final design, their output serves as essential input to other traffic 

analysis tools that can be used for this purpose. 

Eliminate Costly Improvements 

The intersections along Coburg Road 

needed to meet minimum volume-tocapacity ratio (v/c) thresholds. 

Sketch planning traffic analysis 

tools were able to meet this need. As 

a result, the need for a $1 million 

interchange reconfiguration was

Sketch Planning Reduces 

Staff Time Required 

Using sketch planning 

traffic analysis tools, 

the Coburg Road 

intersection analyses 

were completed in 25-30 

percent of the time that 

would have been required 

if the traditional 

traffic analysis tools 

had been applied, and 

Sufficient Data for a Solution 

Inspection of traffic 

volumes at the interchange 

showed that the existing 

controller phasing 

(starting and ending both 

ramps together) resulted 

in unnecessary congestion. 

By eliminating this 

constraint, the southbound 

arterial traffic was free 

to fill the space between 

the intersections,

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 21 
5.2 HCM/Analytical Model – Queuing Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

5.2 HCM/Analytical Model – Queuing Analysis 

Analytical models can be used in combination with more detailed analysis 

procedures to provide a robust examination of complex situations. Deterministic 

tools such as the HCM or other analytical models are effective ways to get 

answers to some questions like lane control and queue space requirements. Their 

output is relatively easy to understand and they also provide an efficient way to 

compare and contrast alternatives. 

 Provided visual confirmation of vehicle ingress and egress 

characteristics under different lane configurations 

 Confirmed infrastructure needs 

 Demonstrated the need for optimizing checkpoint operations and 

resources 

Other Considerations 

 These models require moderate to detailed amounts of data that 

sometimes require significant collection effort. 

 Calibration of the models is important to ensure they produce 

consistent results. 

Security Screening Analysis – Fort Hood, TX

Key Benefits 

Clear and Consistent Results 

The HCM procedure was used to determine 

an initial estimate for queuing based on 

military standards for gate processing 

times for several threat condition 

levels. Analysis results were presented 

in an easy-to-understand tabular format 

that clearly identified the effects of 

different options on staffing 

requirements and vehicle delay. 

Microsimulation was subsequently used for

Consistent Evaluation 

Changes in security 

policies required an 

evaluation of the 

security checkpoints at 

the Army base in Fort 

Hood, Texas. Analyses 

were completed to 

optimize checkpoint 

operations and minimize 

delays across varying 

traffic conditions 

throughout a typical 

day. The traffic 

analysis tool provided 

a consistent frame of 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 22 
5.2 HCM/Analytical Model – Queuing Analysis Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

The output from the analytical tools can also be used as input to microscopic 

simulation models capable of a much more detailed analysis. For example, 

simulation allows visual confirmation of operating characteristics as well as 

examination of more detailed issues. 

Base personnel used the traffic simulation model to support presentations to 

military officers and other key stakeholders. Ultimately, the simulation model was 

used to support full, detailed design of access control points. 

 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 23 

Effective Use of Several Tools 

This project benefited 

significantly from the 

sequential application of two 

different levels of traffic 

analysis tools. The analytical 

model provided basic insights 

into sizing issues such as 

number of lanes and number of 

checkpoints. The simulation 

model provided visual 

confirmation of operating 

characteristics and allowed 

Development of Cost Effective Solutions 

Using these traffic analysis tools, lane 

configurations were developed for use in 

determination of staffing levels by time 

period. Prior to the analysis, staffing 

levels were overestimated and resulted in 

needless costs to the agency. 

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

0000 to 0500 0500 to 0900 0900 to 1400 1400 to 2400

Time Period

Number of Staffed Lanes

Before After
5.3 Traffic Simulation Model Case Study – Transit Signal Priority Evaluation Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

5.3 Traffic Simulation Model Case Study – Transit 

Signal Priority Evaluation 

Microsimulation was the appropriate tool to evaluate the effects of transit signal 

priority strategies on traffic flow along major arterial corridors in Portland, 

Oregon. This is because it was able to predict important performance measures 

that other analysis tools could not – including, for example, vehicle delay and 

both on-time performance and travel time variability for various levels of bus 

service. Its ability to illustrate the effects of alternative control strategies through 

animation was a very effective way for engineers and decision-makers alike to 

assess the overall system performance characteristics. 

Quantifying key parameters 

By tracking the movement of 

each vehicle individually, 

microsimulation can give the 

decision maker a handle on 

important considerations that 

other analysis tools cannot – 

considerations like the 

amount of travel time 

Designing the system 

Microsimulation allowed 

the system design to be 

fine-tuned to meet the 

City of Portland’s 

needs. Bus stop 

locations, stop service 

percentage, traffic 

conditions, and signal 

timing strategies were 

varied to isolate the 

effects of individual 

elements on the TSP 

system, and then the 

i

Transit Signal Priority - Portland, OR 

Key Benefits 

 Demonstrated how bus travel speed can be increased without 

significant effects on traffic flow 

 Documented and quantified important operational details 

(queues, delay, etc.) 

Other Considerations 

 Effective use of microsimulation requires investment in data 

collection and calibration. 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 24 
5.3 Traffic Simulation Model Case Study – Transit Signal Priority Evaluation Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

Hardware-in-the loop 

Hardware-in-the-loop uses a 

combination of simulation software 

and field signal controller equipment 

to evaluate traffic conditions in an 

office setting prior to field 

implementation. Using this technique 

reduces disruptions for traffic and 

transit during installation and 

allows analysis to quantify the 

VISSIM Simulation 170 Traffic Controller 

Controller Interface Device 

Sufficient assessment of 

strategies 

Use of simulation insured 

that limitations of the 

field hardware were 

addressed and resolved 

prior to implementation. 

This approach reduced the 

amount of staff time in 

the field required to 

implement the strategy, 

lti i i ifi t

Effects of variability 

Performance of the signal priority 

system is dependent on the 

controller settings and transit 

operations. Reducing travel time 

variability is a key to improving 

on-time performance for transit and 

simulation of elements such as 

boarding and traffic interaction 

allowed assessment of key measures 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 25 
5.4 Traffic Optimization Case Study – Signal Timing Plan Development and Implementation Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

5.4 Traffic Optimization Case Study – Signal Timing 

Plan Development and Implementation 

A traffic optimization tool was used when Lee County, Florida undertook the 

retiming of over 100 signals along 18 arterials, including 20 signals in downtown 

Fort Myers. The tool was used to develop initial signal timing plans to minimize 

stops and delays to arterial through traffic. The plans were implemented and then 

fine-tuned in the field. 

 Tool must first be calibrated to field conditions to ensure 

the development of realistic performance expectations 

 Improved quality of service to road users 

Other Considerations 

Key Benefits 

 Efficient way to test multiple scenarios and strategies 

Countywide Signal Retiming - Fort Myers, Florida 

Development of Optimization 

Strategies 

The model was used to assess 

existing traffic conditions as 

well as develop new signal 

timing plan options for each 

corridor (6-10 plans per 

Testing of Multiple Scenarios 

Due to the seasonal 

fluctuation in travel 

demand, two sets of final 

timing plans (peak and offpeak season) had to be 

developed and implemented 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 26 
5.4 Traffic Optimization Case Study – Signal Timing Plan Development and Implementation Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

The traffic optimization tool allowed for the testing, evaluation, and refinement 

of multiple strategies for each scenario prior to field implementation. Visual 

outputs that are available from this type of tool can be useful to engineers in 

affirming the correctness of the input as well as in demonstrating the benefits of 

the new signal timing plans to others. 

Benefits Achieved 

 More effective use of engineers’ 

time 

 Average peak-hour delays were 

reduced by 16% and stops were 

reduced by 22%. 

 Easier field implementation 

Time Efficiency

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

With Tool Without Tool

Staff Time (hours)

Assistance in Implementation 

Field implementation was made 

easier through the tool’s 

ability to create signal 

timing worksheets, time-space 

diagrams, and flow profiles 

that were then used to 

develop controller-ready

Efficiencies Gained 

Using an optimization 

tool gained both cost and 

time efficiencies by 

providing a means to test 

and refine strategies, 

prior to field 

implementation. This 

minimized the amount of 

staff time spent in the 

field, reduced the amount 

of staff time required 

overall, and minimized 

Assistance in Decision Process 

The optimization tool helped 

in making key project 

decisions by testing and 

evaluating multiple 

strategies in an efficient

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 27 
6.0 What Next? Traffic Analysis Tools Case Studies 

Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 28 

6.0 What Next? 

Selecting the right traffic analysis tool for a project used to require the judgment, 

insight and knowledge that came only from years of experience and application. 

These continue to be important even today, of course, but now an expert system is 

also available that makes the job considerably easier. By answering a few 

questions about key project characteristics, the expert system will suggest the type 

of traffic analysis tool to get you to clear, complete, and consistent answers that 

are necessary for making sound transportation investment decisions in your 

community. What’s even better, this expert system is freely available from the 

Federal Highway Administration; it should be a part of every transportation 

agency’s toolbox, and it can be found at: 

http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/Travel/Traffic_Analysis_Tools/traffic_analysis_tools.htm. 
Office of Operations

Room E86-205

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590

www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov

FHWA-HOP-06-005