Integration of Transportation Demand Management for Highway Projects

Summary

Travel Demand Management (TDM) refers to the use of strategies that maximize the efficiency of our transportation systems. These strategies aim to reduce the need for peak-time travel, improve existing travel options, and create new choices for travelers. This study responds to the Metropolitan Council's recommendation to "Conduct a Study on Integrating TDM in Highway Projects," available in its TDM Action Plan. The goal of this work was to identify how TDM strategies can be incorporated into all phases of highway construction projects. Researchers conducted a nationwide scan of how TDM has been integrated into roadway projects, grouped into four categories focused on: integration into policy, integration in the planning or construction phases, strategies to enhance modal choice, and strategies to manage demand on a corridor. From these cases, researchers identified seven best practices: incorporating TDM policies and practices into development, understanding community needs, setting SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals and a plan to document progress toward them, and ensuring that the strategies selected can work in conjunction with each other, are flexible, and have sustained funding. These practices provide guidance for policy makers, planners and engineers, and local officials to craft TDM policies and plans into highway projects. Ultimately, the integration of TDM into highway projects enhances travel options and creates modal choices for travelers. In addition, this approach could lead to more efficient transportation systems and contribute to delaying or removing the need for a highway project in the first place.