Modelling of bicycle traffic in the cities using VISUM

Abstract

Decisions concerning development of the transport system in district, city or region should be undertaken after careful analysis. One of the methods to carry it out is utilization of a computerized traffic model which is prepared in specialized software − e.g. in the VISUM. Traffic model allows to predict the effects of proposed changes in configuration of the transport network, in traffic restrictions or in effects of changes in anticipated spatial development of the area. The models can be created for different applications − e.g. only for research the modal split in passenger traffic with taking into account all the possible ways of movement, for research the distribution of selected types of transport means in transport network, or for research investment needs in transport infrastructure development. In each of these cases there is a need to develop a model of the transport network as well as demand model. The article presents an approach to modeling cycling in cities using the PTV VISUM. Were presented solutions for the development of the network model, demand model (including travel generation and spatial travel distribution), model of traffic distribution on the network, as well as in the field of verification, validation and calibration. In addition, it describes the use of described approach to develop a cycling model for Warsaw. This model is one of the elements of the Transportation Model of Warsaw Agglomeration 2016 which is result of work carried out by the consortium: PBS, Cracow University of Technology and Warsaw University of Technology. Model developed as part of this project is a tool for supporting planning of cycling in Warsaw. Described approach can be used to develop a model of cycling for any area (of course in case of having relevant data).