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Visualization Tools and Techniques for Transportation Projects Presented to: Georgia Planning Association Spring Conference. Claudia M. Bilotto, AICP March 26, 2009. Why Visualize?. Common language across backgrounds and perspectives. Provides context around complex ideas and concepts.
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Visualization Tools and Techniques for Transportation ProjectsPresented to:Georgia Planning Association Spring Conference Claudia M. Bilotto, AICP March 26, 2009
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.
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
High - Tech Visualization Tools • Scenario Planning Programs • 3D Animation • Simulation Videos • Multi-Media Gaming • Google Earth • Others?
What do I need for a “High – Tech” visualization? • Data • Resources • Technology • Expertise
Visualization and Web 2.0 • Integrate with existing online resources. • Expand your reach. • Create opportunities for comment. • Maximize your resources.
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
I-85 at GA 400 Interchange, Atlanta, GA The Project: New ramp connection between two of Atlanta’s 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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/
Questions and Answers Thank you! Claudia M. Bilotto, AICP HNTB Corporation cbilotto@hntb.com 404.946.5747