2.4 Field Studies/Observations

Field observations are critical in understanding the complete picture of traffic operations. It is recommended that field observations are conducted on one of the same days as the other data collections to account for any nuances in traffic flows/patterns and how travelers use the facilities. Field observations are recommended but may be optional depending on the analysis and project scope. A field visit checklist is provided in Appendix C, Section 1 – Field Visit Checklist.

2.4.1 Existing Geometry

It is recommended that existing roadway geometry be verified during field observations. This is especially important for areas with new developments, locations that have dated aerial imagery, or locations with no as-builts available. Below is a list of items to note during field observations in addition the ones mentioned in Section 2.2
:

Sight distance at intersections;

Driveway spacing;

Lighting (e.g., intersection, safety, continuous);

Signage (e.g., guide signs, speed limits, lane assignments);

Pedestrian ramps;

Pavement markings;

Bicycle lanes/wide shoulders;

Shared-used paths/sidewalks/worn dirt paths;

Above-ground utilities;

Other potential conflicts and environmental constraints;

Condition of existing elements; and

Traffic signals

2.4.2 Existing Operations

During field observations, verify operational items that could not be easily inferred from field traffic data. Below is a list of examples that may be noted during field observations:

Existing roadway and traffic elements, including traffic control types;

Speed limits (e.g., how often speed limits are changing, location of speed limit signs, operating speeds);

Queuing and notable issues, such as queuing out of turn bays or on ramps;

Traffic signal heads, including pedestrian signal heads;

General operation of the traffic signal (e.g., sequence, phasing, cycle lengths, de facto cycle lengths if running free);

Left turn phasing (permitted, protected [leading or lagging], protectedpermitted, flashing yellow arrow);

Land use and zoning in the vicinity of the project;

Lane utilization along each approach;

Turning movement speeds at nonconventional turning angles; and

Atypical driver behavior, such as drivers making a right turn at an intersection, followed by immediate U-turns at a downstream location

2.4.3 Developments

It is suggested that adjacent developments around the project are noted during the field visit. It is also important to make note of all special traffic generators (e.g., office building, schools, mall, hospital, stadium, major employer, large parking garage/lot). This can provide insight into understanding traffic patterns within the study area and provide improved means for assumptions when balancing traffic volumes.

In addition to existing developments, Traffic Impact Analyses (TIAs) done for planned developments are another source of data for TMCs, trip generation, and additional traffic that may need to be layered into the analysis. Referring to past TIAs or ones that are in progress may provide an enhanced overall understanding of the future traffic and travel patterns.

2.4.3.1 Energy Sector

The Texas Railroad Commission (TRC) website is a good source for data related to the energy sector. For projects that take place in energy sector locations, such as the Permian Basin, the TRC website provides information such as drilling permits, energy-related infrastructure, production of oil and gas, and other useful information that may be helpful in determining future traffic impacts based on energy production. See Appendix C, Section 6 – External References (Reference 2)
for a link to the TRC website.