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

The goal of this mixed-methods project is to help the State of California better assess the VMT impacts of state and local transportation projects. Specifically, the proposed research will:

  • compile and evaluate the existing VMT calculation tools and other relevant modeling tools and metrics,
  • examine practical challenges associated with calculating or verifying the VMT impacts of transportation projects, and
  • offer recommendations for the State of California to account for and address VMT and other environmental impacts of transportation infrastructure investments.
University: 
San José State University
Principal Investigator: 
Serena E. Alexander
PI Contact Information: 

serena.alexander@sjsu.edu

San Jose State University

Dates: 
July 2023 to June 2024
Implementation of Research Outcomes: 

We will compile existing VMT assessment tools and metrics, identify innovative tools and best practices of assessing the VMT impacts of transportation projects, examine common advantages and limitations associated with VMT metrics and tools, and inform the development of future, more reliable and accurate VMT estimation tools.

Impacts/Benefits of Implementation: 

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.

Project Number: 
2314

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CSUTC
MCEEST
MCTM
NTFC
NTSC

Contact Us

SJSU Research Foundation   210 N. 4th Street, 4th Floor, San Jose, CA 95112    Phone: 408-924-7560   Email: mineta-institute@sjsu.edu