Household-Level Global Positioning System Travel Data to Measure Regional Traffic Congestion

Abstract

Regional performance metrics for traffic congestion typically rely on facility-based measurements and forecasted regional impacts. Global Positioning System (GPS) travel data from household travel surveys or panel studies can provide an alternative source of performance data that characterize the specific experiences of households in the region. Such data can also supplement regional performance data for congestion management programs and can be directly related to the experiences of the region's residents and the development of livability and mobility standards. GPS travel data from the 2010 Front Range Counts Travel Survey were used to generate vehicle travel performance metrics in the Denver, Colorado, area. At the regional and household levels, statistics regarding travel time index, number of stops, and overall delay were calculated. This new approach is compared with standard congestion measurement practice to highlight advantages and disadvantages. This supplemental household approach provides planners and policy makers with insights that can guide mitigation strategies and investment plans.