Updating Multimodal Level of Service Calculations to Incorporate Latest FDOT Research Since 2001

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has developed, through 8 years of research, Level of Service (LOS) tools for use in multimodal planning. The models have been developed by a series of “Ride or Walk for Science” events, getting feedback in real world situations from user perspectives on how well a facility serves their needs. The multimodal LOS models have been scientifically calibrated and validated to reflect the level of comfort, safety and convenience that a pedestrian, bicyclist, or transit user experiences on a particular roadway. This research effort utilized experts in the transportation planning field and practitioners, who would ultimately be using the tools, to give recommendations for their incorporation into the FDOT 2002 Quality/Level of Service handbook and Art_Plan software. Experts tested the model in a two-day workshop, using data generated on 6 Florida facilities, and applying it to a spreadsheet of all the LOS models. They were asked to examine the sensitivities of the models, and look for any deficiencies. Recommendations were made on ways to “tweak” the models to reflect better sensitivity as well as ways that FDOT could publicize and implement a plan for their use. By developing tools to measure and model the needs of pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, as well as those of motor vehicle drivers. FDOT has been in the forefront of a shift in transportation planning and design. It could not come at a more critical time in our state and nation’s history, with the importance of health and physical activity, safe routes for school children, and the price of gasoline influencing the transportation choices of everyday citizens.