SPONSOR: BMW Group

BUDGET: $30,000

ABSTRACT: The objective of this chapter is to discuss current definitions of metropolitan traffic congestion and ways it is currently measured. In addition, the accuracy and reliability of these measures will be described along with a review of how congestion has been changing over the past several decades. First, the results of a survey among transportation professionals are summarized to assist in framing the issue. Most respondents linked the measurement of congestion to the increased travel time that occurs during peak periods. Roughly half of those surveyed felt that congestion measures are at least somewhat accurate, and about 80% of those surveyed feel that congestion has worsened over the past 20 years. The chapter includes a literature review of current trends in congestion definition and measurement, a discussion and short critique of one major congestion monitoring program, and presents some basic theory about how traffic parameters are often measured over time and space. A brief description of possible congestion measures over corridors and entire door-to-door trips is provided. Additional analysis of recent congestion measures for entire metropolitan area is provided, using Portland, Oregon and Minneapolis, Minnesota as case examples. Some discussion of the stability of daily travel budgets and alternative viewpoints about congestion are provided along with some conclusions and perspectives for future research.

PRODUCTS:

journal Bertini, R.L., "Congestion and its Extent." In: Access to Destinations: Rethinking the Transportation Future of our Region, Ed: D. Levinson and K. Krizek, Elsevier, 2005.

presentation Bertini, R. L., "Congestion and its Extent." Portland State University, Center for Transportation Studies, Friday Seminar Series, November 2004.

presentation Bertini, R. L., "Congestion and its Extent." University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies, Access to Destinations: Rethinking the Transportation Future of our Region., November 8-9, 2004