Improving Processes for Obtaining and Utilizing Traffic Data for Highway Design

Project Description

TxDOT research project 0-1801 – "Evaluate and Develop an Improved System for Collecting and Reporting Traffic Loads to Better Meet the Needs of Bridge and Pavement Designers" developed two products:

1. Recommendations for Enhancing TxDOT's Current Traffic Forecasting Process
2. Traffic Data Request Guide for Highway Pavement and Geometric Design

This implementation project sought to put into practice a number of the recommendations developed from the research. One of the recommendations was to implement a Traffic Data Request Guide for Highway Pavement and Geometric Design. Implementation of the Guide included an outreach and training program designed to educate districts and other divisions on the Guide and the Department's data collection processes. The training mechanism was a workshop targeting district pavement and geometric designers and technicians. In addition, workshop training materials were developed in the form of PowerPoint® presentations and an instructor and participant notebooks. The instructional workshops will help promote a widespread understanding of the importance of the Guide and the procedures to follow when requesting traffic data.

The Traffic Data Request Guide for Highway Pavement and Geometric Design offers substantial opportunities for an improved and coordinated data collection process in the future. Implementation of the Guide at the district level will result in an enhanced Statewide Traffic Analysis and Reporting System (STARS).

Project Publications

Project Summary of Improving Processes for Obtaining and Utilizing Traffic Data for Highway Design 5-1801-01-1

Traffic Data Request Guide for Highway Pavement and Geometric Design 5-1801-01-P1

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