Applying Emerging Private-Sector Probe-Based Speed Data in the National Capital Region's Planning Processes

Abstract

Public-sector applications of emerging private-sector probe-based travel time and speed data have been mainly for real-time traffic operations and incident and special events management; such data have rarely been used for metropolitan planning organizations’ planning programs or processes. Using data from the I-95 Corridor Coalition Vehicle Probe Project in the National Capital Region, this paper explores the possible planning applications of such operations data, including the congestion management process, management and operations planning, air-quality conformity analysis, and travel demand modeling. The paper demonstrates several important probe data–based performance measures in metropolitan transportation planning, especially for areas without comprehensive traffic detection systems. It also summarizes the advantages and caveats of the probe data and lessons learned from the experience.