A traffic impact study is an evaluation conducted to identify the likely impacts a new development is going to have on the available transportation system. It shows how the extra generated traffic from the development is going to impact road capacity, traffic flow, and safety.
A Traffic Impact Study assures that new developments do not have an adverse impact on traffic conditions and, hence, safety and the overall transportation infrastructure. This can identify problems in advance that could have been expressed related to traffic concerns with recommendations for mitigating measures before the development is approved.
Both terms are used interchangeably; however, Traffic Impact Study is more encompassing in relation to general effects, unlike TIA, which is mainly focused on traffic flow and congestion.
A Traffic Impact Study is typically required by local governments whenever a new development is proposed that is likely to generate substantial additional traffic. This can range from residential to commercial, industrial, and institutional projects.
The study of the effects on the traffic impacts is conducted by a certified Traffic Engineer, normally titled as Professional Traffic Operations Engineer. These professionals use specialized tools and methodologies in assessing the traffic impacts.
The duration varies from project to project. It can range from weeks to several months, depending upon the complexity of the project and the scope.
Some of the main elements to consider in conducting a traffic impact study are trip generation analysis, estimation of traffic volume, intersection capacity analysis, pedestrian and bicycle safety evaluation, assessment of parking, and environmental impact analysis.
Yes, if the Traffic Impact Study indicates that a development would generate unmanageable traffic problems or safety hazards, such development could be rejected or major modifications to the project be carried out before it is allowed.
In many cases, local governments find a provision in their ordinances that will necessitate the need for a Traffic Impact Study in conjunction with the development approval process. Often, the traffic impact study will conclusively govern their decision to approve, deny, or alter the proposed development activity. The mitigation measures would depend on the nature of the traffic impacts which the study identifies. These could include improvements to the road, intersection upgrades, or changes in public transportation services.
Yes, as a condition of approval, developers may be required to contribute to the cost of infrastructure improvements. This provision ensures a fair share of the mitigation costs between the developer and the community.
