13.2.5 Analysis Tool Selection

Due to the complex and resource-intensive nature of microsimulation tools, carefully consider the tool based on project scope, project schedule, project type, needs, complexity, MOEs, and budget. There is often more than one suitable traffic analysis tool for a given project. Only use microsimulation when necessary.

Microsimulation is often used to analyze locations with the following characteristics:

oversaturated conditions (traffic volumes over capacity);

corridors with multiple hours of congestion;

multilane or two-lane rural roads where traffic signals or stop signs considerably impact capacity and/or operations;

freeway widening projects;

access management studies;

climbing lanes for trucks;

short through-lane is added or dropped at a signal;

roundabouts of more than a single lane;

tight diamond interchanges;

multimodal operations (transit, pedestrian, bike, freight); and

atypical conditions

13.2 Project Scope