Urban Trip Distribution in Practice. I: Conventional Analysis

Abstract

This paper reviews the state of the art of urban passenger trip distribution for conventional large‐ and small‐area analyses. The conventional large‐area analysis covers the following elements of trip distribution: preparing input data, selecting a trip‐distribution model, calibrating the model, validating the model, and forecasting. Input data consists of the base‐year trip matrix and transportation network. The characteristics of three trip‐distribution models are presented. The gravity model is selected as the basis for describing the elements of calibration, validation, and forecasting. Other important issues are also described. The conventional small‐area analysis covers origin‐destination surveys, extraction methods, and forecasting using the Fratar model. The companion paper addresses the quick response and special topics of trip distribution. These papers are part of a series being produced by the Planning Committee of the Urban Transportation Division (UTD) of ASCE. By summarizing the current status of trip distribution, the Planning Committee hopes to raise awareness and understanding of available analysis tools and to help their applications and development.