Consistent VMT Mapping and Modeling in California: How Can We Better Assess the VMT Impacts of State and Local Transportation Projects?

The study findings will help California better assess the VMT impacts of transportation projects. In California, there is a tremendous interest in accurate and reliable tools that can be used consistently across local, regional, and state governments. These VMT tools are essential for transportation and infrastructure planning, CEQA processes, creation of VMT banks, and evaluation of progress toward the state’s climate goals. As such, this research offers many benefits, including:
•    Helping California successfully reach its climate goals: California has set ambitious climate goals, but sustained VMT and transportation emissions reduction have been difficult to achieve for much of the past decade. Inconsistent or inaccurate estimation of the VMT impacts of transportation projects can hinder progress toward the state’s climate goals. The proposed research will help address this gap by offering guidelines for the development and/or use of VMT mapping and modeling tools. 
•    Informing the selection and prioritization of transportation projects across the state:  A key output of this research can be a set of guidelines for accurate, consistent, and reliable measurement of the VMT impacts of transportation projects across the state. These guidelines can inform decision-making for transportation projects in California, and help prioritizing projects with the greatest VMT reduction potential. 
•    Protecting the health and well-being of Californians: Transportation projects that increase VMT can also impact the health and well-being of Californians by impacting traffic, and consequently, air pollutants and vehicle noise. Prolonged exposure to air pollution and vehicle noise can impact both physical and mental health of Californians. Ensuring that the VMT impacts of transportation projects are accurately measured and considered in transportation planning and CEQA processes will help protect Californians from the negative health and environmental impacts of transportation.  
•    Developing course materials and community engagement projects to enhance student learning: Knowledge gained through this research will help us develop innovative, cutting-edge course materials and community engagement projects to train the next generation of California planners, engineers, and transportation professionals.