We all know that closing gaps in our walking and biking networks provides tremendous benefits, and quantifying those benefits helps make the case for further investments. In this session, we will explore a brand new tool that estimates the benefits of active transportation network improvements. Building on recently published guidance in NCHRP Report 08-149 (
Estimating Benefits of Closing Gaps in Active Transportation Networks), we developed a simplified spreadsheet implementation that makes the methods accessible to a broader range of practitioners and community advocates. The tool is intended to make it easier than ever to create research-backed, defensible estimates of a range of benefits from active travel, including health, safety, emissions reduction, and accessibility. The tool will be maintained and further developed as part of the
Transportation Research and Education Center (TREC) Resource HUB, and we hope it will empower planners and communities who advocate for increased investments in active transportation.
This session will cover the following topics:
* A quick summary of the NCHRP 08-149 Report.
* The purpose of the tool. Why it was created and who was it made for.
* A demonstration of the tool, including the different layers of customization and a quick example of how the tool can be used.
* Interactive example: Open the tool up to the floor to explore the tool as a group.
* Our session will include a discussion with the audience allowing them to ask questions and to better understand how the tool might help guide their work.
