INCORPORATING INTERMODALISM INTO FREEWAY SYSTEM PLANNING

This research enhances the Dallas System Planning Study, which presented a methodology for selecting the least-cost alternative for freeway improvement projects for the Dallas area. This study includes data from other freeway and High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) systems from around the country. The congestion cost analysis was improved by developing a linear relationship between vehicular volume or flow and delay. Cost estimating procedures for fuel consumption, and delay to passenger and commercial vehicles are included in the alternative analysis. The new methodology is a more complete analysis of the costs and benefits of alternatives, and is applicable to other communities in their selection of freeway improvement alternatives. It also allows the alternative with the least energy consumption to be identified. The results of this project will be implemented to reduce energy consumption in Texas by allowing planning teams to select the least energy intensive alternative being considered for any freeway corridor or system plan.