Visualization Tools and Techniques for Transportation Projects Presented to: Georgia Planning Association Spring Conference

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Visualization Tools and Techniques for
Transportation ProjectsPresented toGeorgia
Planning Association Spring Conference

• Claudia M. Bilotto, AICP
• March 26, 2009

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Why Visualize?

• Common language across backgrounds and
  perspectives.
• Provides context around complex ideas and
  concepts.
• Helps to inform decisions and generate buy-in.
• Less confusion less resistance and time.

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Visualization and SAFETEA - LU

• MPOs and States shall employ visualization
  techniques to describe the Regional
  Transportation Plan (RTP) and Statewide
  Transportation Plan
• Techniques include GIS, Traffic Simulation,
  Visual Preference Surveys, Videos, Renderings,
  Overlays

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High - Tech Visualization Tools

• Scenario Planning Programs
• 3D Animation
• Simulation Videos
• Multi-Media Gaming
• Google Earth
• Others?

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What do I need for a High Tech visualization?

• Data
• Resources
• Technology
• Expertise

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Visualization and Web 2.0

• Integrate with existing online resources.
• Expand your reach.
• Create opportunities for comment.
• Maximize your resources.

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Examples

• I-85 and GA 400, Atlanta, GA
• Windy Hill Road Extension, Cobb County, GA
• IH-30 Managed Lanes, Dallas, TX
• Missouri Statewide Transportation Plan, MO
• I-70 SEIS www.improvei70.org/ , MO
• Missouri River Pedestrian Bridge, Omaha, NE

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I-85 at GA 400 Interchange, Atlanta, GA

• The Project New ramp connection between two of
  Atlantas most frequently traveled highways.
• The Challenge Demonstrate the impact and
  engineering feasibility of a flyover connection
  in tight right-of-way with a minimal public
  outreach program.
• The Result Buy-in from the client, the
  engineering community, and the public at-large.

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Windy Hill Road Extension, Cobb County, GA

• The Project New location roadway extending Windy
  Hill Road from Austell Road to Macland Road.
• The Challenge Design and build consensus on a
  feasible alternative while working with citizens
  directly impacted by the project.
• The Result Consensus alternative developed with
  support from the community.

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Missouri Statewide Transportation Plan

• The Project Statewide Transportation Plan for
  the State of Missouri
• The Challenge Communicate the funding challenges
  faced by transportation decision makers.
• The Result Public education, input, and interest
  in the Statewide plan development process.

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IH-30 Managed Lanes, Dallas, TX
The Project Managed lanes in the Dallas, TX
Region The Challenge Demonstrate proposed
declaration gantries for managed lanes access and
operations The Result Public education and
understanding of facility operation without
misconceptions.
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I-70 Supplemental EIS, Missouri
The Project Supplemental Environmental Impact
Statement for potential truck only lanes along
the most important transportation corridor in
Missouri. The Challenge Engage citizens from
across the state and communicate the purpose,
function, and operation of truck only lanes. The
Result Nearly 600 downloads and 400 comments
generated far more than traditional public
outreach programs.
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Missouri River Pedestrian Bridge, Omaha, NE
The Project Pedestrian bridge connecting Omaha
Riverfront and Council Bluffs, Iowa. The
Challenge Communicate a vision, highlight design
features, and receive conceptual approval prior
to detailed engineering. The Result Buy-in from
local citizen groups, businesses, and elected
officials on the centerpiece of a billion dollar
revitalization effort.
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Lessons Learned

• High-tech visualization is a tool for
  understanding concepts but is more than eye
  candy.
• Portability / accessibility can maximize
  investment in high-tech visualization
  practicality is key.
• Interactive visualization tools promote
  inclusiveness and consensus.

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For more information

• FHWA Visualization in Planning Website
  http//www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/vip/index.htm
• TRB Committee on Visualization in Transportation
  http//www.trbvis.org/

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Questions and Answers

• Thank you!
• Claudia M. Bilotto, AICP
• HNTB Corporation
• cbilotto_at_hntb.com
• 404.946.5747