4.3.2 Travel Demand Models (TDM)
TransCAD, Visum, and Cube are three examples of software that are used for travel demand modeling. These types of tools are typically GIS-based planning-stage tools used for travel demand modeling. Inputs include analysis zones and network of links (roadways and zone connectors). Most models are based on static traffic assignment, with static travel times for calculating the shortest path. Analysis zones include attributes such as land use, population, trip origins and destinations by mode, and employment data. Links include attributes such as facility type, number of lanes, posted speeds, capacity, distance, and travel time. Analysis follows the four-step model to output projected traffic volumes. When using TDMs, tool selection is based on model availability (i.e., if the TDM used was developed in Cube, then it is recommended that Cube is used as the analysis tool for the project). The content in this chapter focuses on TDM outputs, not on the development of TDMs. Typical outputs for a TDM are the Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), Vehicles Hours Traveled (VHT), Vehicle Hours of Delay, volume-to-capacity ratio, and speed.