TRAVEL TIME DATA COLLECTION FIELD TESTS - LESSONS LEARNED

Abstract

This report summarizes the process and lessons learned from the Standardized Travel Time Surveys and Field Test project. The field tests of travel time data collection were conducted in Boston, Seattle, and Lexington in 1993. The methodologies tested include: license plate matching using video cameras; license plate matching using portable computers; floating car; probe vehicle (cellular phone reporting); automatic vehicle identification (AVI) equipped buses; and volume data collected from loop detectors. The ultimate goal is to develop a nationally uniform program of travel time data collection and reporting in support of congestion management, and trend and intercity comparison. This document can be used by state or metropolitan planning organization (MPO) planners as guidance for collecting travel time data. It includes examples and procedures on: survey design, methodology selection, equipment and staff requirements, step by step survey procedures, post-survey data processing, analysis, and report production. The document has detailed description and comparison of six data collection methods, focusing on their operational characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, costs, and effectiveness with respect to particular settings and sample size attainment. In conclusion, it stresses the importance of establishing standardized survey procedures and consistent data collection and processing practices in order to achieve overall efficiency and effectiveness in travel time data collection and applications.

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