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. ■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 MOwww.improvei70.org/ ■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: ■TRB Committee on Visualization in Transportation

Questions and Answers Thank you! Claudia M. Bilotto, AICP HNTB Corporation