Forecasting Travel on Congested Urban Transportation Networks: Review and Prospects for Network Equilibrium Models

The historical origins, development and application of traffic network equilibrium models with variable origin–destination flows are examined in this review. The original formulation and analysis of this model during 1952–1955 by Beckmann, McGuire and Winsten at the Cowles Commission for Research in Economics is the starting point for the review. Subsequent research building upon the original formulation is described, and contrasted with urban travel forecasting practice stemming from the same period. Additional model developments through the end of the twentieth century are then summarized, followed by a brief discussion of travel forecasting practice and software development stimulated by the original formulation.