Guidebook on DTA Data Needs and Interface Options for Integration into the Planning Process

Simulation-based dynamic traffic assignment (DTA) software programs model route choice behavior at a fine time scale across a large spatial area. This mesoscopic level of traffic detail makes DTA a powerful and versatile tool to transportation planners. Unfortunately, there has been limited research and exploration of integrating DTA into the transportation planning process. This guidebook provides information to practitioners regarding the input data required for dynamic traffic assignment, methods and benefits of linking together macroscopic, mesoscopic, and microscopic models, and potential ways of integrating DTA into the traditional four-step planning model.