Examining travel patterns and setting the stage to plan for the future

Dunedin Transport Model

The tools for analyzing public transport in Dunedin were dated. Looking to support transport planning decisions that were informed by a robust evidence base, our team set out to examine current behavioral patterns and rebuild the multi-modal transport model the city is based on.

We developed a new four stage transport model by estimating model parameters from a specific household travel survey (HTS). The modes we considered included car, public transport, and active modes (cycling and walking). A new city centre microsimulation model was also developed for vehicle traffic. The strategic model was subsequently applied to quantify the impacts of the changes proposed along George Street. It was also applied to support the program business case for the transport system to support the relocation of Dunedin Hospital.

With our work now complete, Dunedin has an up-to-date strategic transport model that reflects current travel patterns, and a new microsimulation traffic model that will ultimately enable a more detailed analysis of changes to the transport network in the city centre. Further, these models will assist in effective planning for the future.