Transportation Planning Re-examined

An examination of current transportation planning methodologies is presented in the context of true comprehensive planning. The steps for planning a transportation system are considered in six categories—inventory and history, travel characteristics, projections, deficiency estimates, choosing the plan, and implementing the plan. The different study approaches and degrees of detail possible are examined. The development of a comprehensive transportation plan should result in three integrated phases—a general plan, a definitive plan, and an effectuation plan. These plans should include major streets and highways, parking and circulation for the central business district, mass transit, and terminal facilities for rail, water, and air movements. Close coordination of all these media is essential.