New development projects, such as shopping centers and large residential neighborhoods, have the potential to impact the public, leading to modified traffic patterns and increased demands on existing transportation infrastructure.  

Since its recent merger with Ramey Kemp Associates (RKA), DRMP now offers Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) services and has a team of qualified professionals ready to conduct TIAs for projects throughout the United States. RKA has been specializing in award-winning TIAs since its founding in 1992.

A Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) or a Traffic Impact Study (TIS), plays a pivotal role in planning and designing new developments and aims to mitigate effects on existing road networks, while ensuring safe and reasonable traffic operations.

To comprehensively assess a development’s impact, qualified traffic engineers or planners conduct TIAs. Based on the outcomes of the analysis, mitigation measures, such as roadway and infrastructure improvements, may be recommended to offset traffic impacts.

When is a TIA required?

While not always required, integrating a TIA into most projects proves beneficial.  Typically required by state departments of transportation or local governments, a TIA becomes necessary when a proposed development is anticipated to increase vehicle trips beyond a specific threshold.  The analysis provides critical information for all stakeholders to appropriately evaluate a project and decide whether it should be approved and modified.

The criteria for requiring a TIA vary depending on the location and magnitude of a project. A commonly acknowledged threshold for requiring a TIA arises when a project is expected to generate more than 100 peak hour vehicle trips. In certain regions, allowances may be made for a reduction in traffic generation, factoring in considerations, such as proximity to transit options or the previous use of the development site.  

A standard TIA encompasses an evaluation of current and future anticipated roadway conditions without the project; calculation of the site trip generation and site trip distribution; an evaluation of future conditions with the proposed project; and identification of recommended improvements.  

The experience and skill sets brought forth by DRMP’s Traffic Analysis and Modeling Team includes much more than providing a document. DRMP has extensive experience reviewing and analyzing traffic conditions, collaborating with the project team, working with state and local reviewing agencies, engaging with community stakeholders, presenting results and findings, and anticipating potential transportation issues with proposed developments early on.

Mitigation Measures

Every TIA is unique to a project and transportation network. The transportation network proximate to the site, local environment, state and local guidelines, and community stakeholders requires a different approach to each study that can impact the corresponding conclusions and recommendations of the TIA.

Each TIA is conducted with site specific context.  Existing and background traffic growth or network roadway changes result in a more complicated analyses and the need for innovative solutions.

Potential traffic solutions include but are not limited to:

• Intersection Design (including Installation or Modifications to Traffic Signals, Stop Controls, Roundabouts, etc.)
• Turn Lanes and Roadway Widening
• Pavement Markings and Signage
• Multimodal Facility Upgrades (Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Transit)
• Transportation Demand Management (TDM)
• Lighting and Safety

As we navigate the demands and challenges of development, the impact on transportation is inevitable. The integration of TIA is crucial to ensuring new projects are executed with foresight that mitigates effects on existing road networks.

DRMP has a skilled team of experienced professionals ready to conduct TIAs nationwide. The necessity for a TIA is not universal, but its benefits undoubtedly provide critical information for stakeholders to evaluate, approve, and modify projects appropriately. From traffic signal installations to multimodal facility upgrades, the spectrum of potential solutions underscores the comprehensive approach required to maintain safe and efficient traffic conditions. TIAs are a key step toward creating sustainable, resilient, and well-planned communities.

If you are interested in having a traffic impact analysis conducted for your project, please click here.