BART Link21 Model Development and Application

Services Provided: Travel Demand Model Development, Model Calibration/Validation, Model Application, Uncertainty Analysis

Insight is providing travel demand modeling and data analytics support for the Link21 Program, jointly led by BART and the Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority (CCJPA). The keystone of the Link21 program is a new transbay rail tunnel connecting Oakland and San Francisco.

 The primary task of this project is developing and applying the Link21 model, a state-of-the-art modeling platform in EMME that reflects the latest modeling techniques.  Insight has supported the calibration of this model in three ways: 

(1) creating transit and highway volume datasets and developing scripts that produce easy-to-understand validation workbooks that compare observed to estimated volumes

(2) supporting the review and updates of the highway and transit network databases

(3) running multiple sensitivity tests that “stress test” the model’s ability to predict change

Insight is leading the model application stage of this project. Insight updated the model to reflects the region’s long-range infrastructure projects and travel behavior strategies, including substantial investments in transit infrastructure, telecommuting patterns, density-based increases in parking costs, a regional distance-based transit fare system, and an extensive expansion of roadway tolling. Insight is coding the project’s alternatives, applying the model and developing the model results that support the Business Case for the project. Insight will also perform uncertainty tests to evaluate the project’s ability to withstand significant long-term changes in environmental and travel behavior.

In addition, Insight has assisted project management tasks by developing multiple Quality Plans, including the Travel Demand Modeling Quality Management Plan, coordinating with the program’s Planning & Engineering and Business Case Teams regarding the project’s alternatives and performance metrics.