What kind of traffic studies are being performed to estimate the impact of the Red Line on automobile travel in the corridor?
Traffic studies were performed on the Red Line corridor as part of this project. The studies began with the gathering of traffic counts at over 100 signalized intersections. Diagrams were developed showing the morning and evening peak traffic volumes. From a review of the data, the evening peak hour was determined to be the higher volume. Therefore, for all analysis the evening peak hour was defined as the critical time. Travel demand forecasts were developed for the various Red Line alternatives for both automobile and transit volumes. These forecasts were based on the Baltimore Metropolitan Council’s travel demand model. The traffic volumes were then applied to a traffic simulation model (VISSIM) to determine impacts on traffic operations in the Red Line study area. The results of the traffic studies can be found in the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Technical Report.
