Past Projects

Project Archive

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2013

Mobile Source of Air Toxics (MSATs) Mitigation Measures

Rae Zimmerman, Professor of Planning and Public Administration
Sponsored by New York State Department of Transportation and the United States Department of Transportation

Abstract

This project is sponsored by the New York State Department of Transportation with matching funds from USDOT (UTRC). The objectives of this project are to develop proposed procedures for qualitatively and quantitatively analyzing mobile source air toxics (MSAT) impacts in NYSDOT NEPA and State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) environmental documents and identify feasible MSAT mitigation measures for NYSDOT capital improvement projects and facilities. The NYSDOT MSAT analysis procedures will be based on the FHWA “Interim Guidance on Air Toxic Analysis in NEPA Documents,” but expanded to be specific to the analyses of transportation projects in New York State. The project will involve consultation with several stakeholders, including the Federal Highway Administration, US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), and NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH).

2011

Assessing the Performance of Mega-Projects

Charles Brecher, Affiliated Faculty / Professor of Health & Public Administration
Sponsored by Volvo Research and Education Foundation

Abstract

Evidence from numerous Mega-urban transportation projects has aroused international disquiet, not only about the ability to deliver on-time and within budget, but also about the projected range of urban and regional development impacts. Funded in part by the Volvo Research and Education Foundation, this research is part of an international study related to mega-projects in several different European, Asian, and North American countries (coordinated by the Global Centre for Mega Project in Transport and Development in London). This research is aimed better understand the decision and planning processes, and evaluation metrics related to transportation mega-projects. The Rudin Center has been asked to develop three case studies from the United States that will eventually be compared to studies from nine other countries, resulting in a total of 30 case studies over the course of five years. The first case study for the U.S. team will be AirTrain JFK. Two other projects being considered are the Alameda Corridor in California and I-15 in Utah. These case studies offer a unique opportunity to participate in a global forum of best practices in the fields of transportation and sustainable development.

Communities Developers and Residents: Rethinking Residential Parking Policies in the US

Zhan Guo, Assistant Professor or Urban Planning and Transportation Policy
Sponsored by Mineta Transportation Institute

Assessment of the Economic Impact of 3 Heliports

Mitchell Moss, Director, Rudin Center for Transportation Policy and Management
Sponsored by The Easter Region Helicopter Council

Are Land-use Planning and Congestion Pricing Mutually Supportive

Zhan Guo, Research Director and Assistant Professor or Urban Planning and Transportation Policy
Additional Researchers: Asha Weinstein Agrawal, Jennifer Dill
Sponsored by Mineta Transportation Institute

Abstract

Congestion pricing and land use planning have been proposed as two promising strategies to reduce the externalities associated with driving, including traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. However, they are often viewed by their proponents as substitutive instead of complementary tools. Using data from a pilot mileage fee program run in Portland, OR, researchers explored whether congestion pricing and land use planning were mutually supportive in terms of reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT). Researchers examined whether effective land use planning could reinforce the benefit of congestion pricing, and whether congestion pricing could strengthen the role of land use planning in encouraging travelers to reduce driving. VMT data was collected over 10 months from 130 households, which were divided into two groups: those who paid a mileage charge with rates that varied by congestion level (i.e., congestion pricing) and those who paid a mileage charge with a flat structure. Using regression models to compare the two groups, researchers tested the effect of congestion pricing on VMT reduction across different land use patterns, and the effect of land use on VMT reduction with and without congestion pricing. With congestion pricing, the VMT reduction is greater in traditional (dense and mixed-use) neighborhoods than in suburban (single use, low-density) neighborhoods, most likely because of the availability of travel alternatives in the former. Under the same land use pattern, land use attributes explain more variance of household VMT when congestion pricing is implemented, suggesting that this form of mileage fee could make land use planning a more effective mechanism to reduce VMT. In summary, land use planning and congestion pricing appear to be mutually supportive. For policymakers considering mileage pricing, land use planning affects not only the economic viability but also the political feasibility of a pricing scheme. For urban planners, congestion pricing provides both opportunities and challenges to crafting land use policies that will reduce VMT. For example, a pricing zone that overlaps with dense, mixed-use and transit-accessible development, can reinforce the benefits of these development patterns and encourage greater behavioral changes.

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Tube Map and Passenger Path Choice in the London Underground

Zhan Guo, Research Director and Assistant Professor or Urban Planning and Transportation Policy

Abstract

Schematic system maps are one of the most visible and frequently checked transit information sources, especially in subway networks. Such diagrams often misrepresent reality and affect the perceived desirability of a path; for example, a map may display a path’s distance as either shorter or longer than it actually is. This raises the question of how, and to what extent, maps effect passengers’ choice among paths? The research focused on path length and compared the map distance with the actual distance (actual travel time). Using the London Underground (LU) as a case study, researchers confirmed that the schematic map affects passenger path choices. LU passengers, including both first-time users and frequent users, often trust the schematic map more than their own travel experience. This suggests a need to revisit all efforts aimed at changing travel behavior through time savings. The map effect may partially explain why Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATIS) often yield modest improvements in travel time savings in public transit. This finding could potentially change the way that passengers and transit agencies look at a schematic map.

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Managing World Cities Research

Zhan Guo, Assistant Professor or Urban Planning and Transportation Policy
Other Academic Institutions: University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Through an objective assessment of walkability which takes into account elements that affects the quality of walking facilities and conditions which make walking safe comfortable and convenient (Centre for Science and Environment 2009) this study is documenting the current conditions of the walking environments in Hong Kong and New York. The secondary objective is to identify areas of improvement for creating more pedestrian-friendly streets. The improvement in the friendliness of roads and streets will benefit all members of the communities.

The Intersection of Urban Form and Mileage Fees: Findings from the Oregon Road User Fee Pilot Program

Zhan Guo, Research Director and Assistant Professor or Urban Planning and Transportation Policy
Sponsored by Mineta Transportation Institute

Abstract

This research project is sponsored by the Mineta Transportation Institute. Following the State of Oregon groundbreaking mileage-based fee pilot program, researches have examined many facets of the program’s success, including the performance of the technology and ways that drivers changed their travel behavior once they were paying the flat-rate and variable mileage fees rather than a gas tax. One crucial aspect of the behavioral response that remains to be studied, however, is whether people’s behavioral responses to the MBF are correlated with any elements of the urban form around their homes. This research project addresses that question. More specifically, the project explores the following research questions: (1) Do urban form variables correlate with any of the travel behavior changes that participants made in response to the Oregon MBF pilot program? Are such correlations significant even after controlling for household characteristics (e.g. car ownership, household size, median income), personal attributes (e.g. gender, education, and attitudes), and public transit supply (e.g. access, quality, and frequency)?; (2) Which urban form factors are most significant in explaining travel behavior variations?; and, (3) Do the effects of the urban form variables differ under the two different fee structures tested, the flat-rate fee and variable fee with a higher rate during the peak periods?

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2010

Reducing Vehicle Miles Traveled through Urban Distribution Centers in the New York Metro Area

Hyeon-Shic Shin, Project Manager/Research Scientist
Sponsored by NewYork State Energy Research and Development Authority

Abstract

In trying to examine options for reducing freight vehicle miles traveled (VMT) this project explores the potential for Urban Distribution Centers (UDCs). The project reviews the current literature related to UDCs and examines three UDCs that have already been developed and discusses the potential applicability of this model to the New York Metropolitan region.

Bus Rapid Transit Peer-to-Peer Exchanges for NACTO Members

Sponsored by Federal Transit Administration

Abstract

With support from the Federal Transit Administration, the Rudin Center is coordinating a series of peer-to-peer exchanges on Bus Rapid Transit for members of the National Association of Transportation Officials (NACTO). The purpose of this research effort is to provide an opportunity for various large cities around the United States to share information about the BRT and bus running way challenges they face and the solutions that they have developed in response. These practitioner discussions are complemented and supplemented by presentations and advice from outside experts in various relevant disciplines, who help to frame the issues, discuss solutions used around the world, and provide expert opinions on the applicability of various options. The peer-to-peer exchanges are taking place through a series of in-person workshops, in several different cities around the country. This information exchange is being carefully documented by the research team, and will results in a compendium of the discussions, including the options discussed and conclusions reached. In this way, not only do the workshop participants benefit from the discussions, but the process and results of these discussions will be available to other practitioners and researchers.

Assessing the Implementation and Impact of Public Participation Initiatives

Rogan Kersh, Professor of Public Policy and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
Sponsored by US DOT Federal Transit Administration

Abstract

Sponsored by the Federal Transit Administration (Transportation Participation Pilot Program) this project will assess the implementation and impact of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's efforts to introduce more innovative and meaningful forms of public participation. Like other agencies around the country, NYC's MTA has recently introduced a number of public participation initiatives beyond the legally required minimum. However, the agency is unsure whether its efforts have made any difference, whether it is worth continuing them, whether it should use some of these approaches but not others, and whether it should try other alternatives. The results of the project will be of direct help to MTA and will be enlightening for other agencies as well. More important, perhaps, to other agencies, will be the process by which these public participation efforts are assessed. As part of this research, the Rudin Center is participating in an FTA's TPP coordinated nationwide program, to comparatively assess the key elements that make public participation processes successful. Such an effort will help to elucidate what might work best in various contexts, so that time and monies may be spent most effectively.

Pedestrian Fatalities and Severe Injury Crashes in New York City

Sponsored by New York City Department of Transportation

Abstract

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT), the sponsor of this project, has identified pedestrian safety and mobility as high priorities and has devoted significant resources to pedestrian safety improvement programs. A variety of safety programs and initiatives have been implemented by NYCDOT over the past fifteen years. Such programs and initiatives appear to have been successful. Despite such improvements in pedestrian safety, pedestrians in New York City are still more vulnerable to motor vehicle-related crashes than those living in other parts of New York State or the United States, because of its unique characteristics in terms of population density, pedestrian volume, and dense urban built environment. Recognizing that a multitude of factors impact pedestrian safety and that these factors may vary not just nationally, but within cities, the NYU Wagner Rudin Center for Transportation Policy & Management, the Center for Transportation Injury Research at CUBRC and State University of New York-Buffalo, the Rensselaer Polytechnic University, and Baruch College, are conducting a joint study aimed at identifying specific locations and means for further improving pedestrian safety in New York City. The goals of the proposed study are three-fold: (1) to identify priority locations for pedestrian safety engineering treatments; (2) to identify priority treatments by location type; and, (3) and to suggest recommendations based on the 5 E's of safety: Engineering, Enforcement, Encouragement, Education, and Evaluation.

Pedestrian Safety and Potential High-Risk Groups

Sponsored by US DOT Federal Highway Administration.

Abstract

Funded by Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), this study tackles the pedestrian safety issues while specifically addressing the needs and challenges associated with potential high-risk population groups that will be identified in the initial months of the study. Working closed with the current members of National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), as well as several non-NACTO large central cities as appropriate, the goal of the study is to identify the key areas of concern, the potential means for addressing them and the types of policy decisions that would need to be made in order to increase safety for pedestrians in high-risk groups. More specifically, the objectives of this research are to: (1) review related materials on pedestrian safety, with special attention to high-risk populations; (2) collect information about issues, tools, planning methods, and policies for pedestrian safety in large central cities, and to collect available data on pedestrian fatalities and injuries at the city- and facility-level (e.g. school zone and roads) where available; (3) identify high-risk populations and specific safety hazards affecting them through qualitative and quantitative analysis, using the information and data collected in (2); and, (4) suggest tools, recommended practices and performance measures for planning, and policies that would be helpful to improve pedestrian safety for high-risk populations.

Best Practices for Context Sensitive Solutions in Urban Areas

Zhan Guo, Research Director and Assistant Professor or Urban Planning and Transportation Policy
Sponsored by Mineta Transportation Institute

Abstract

Earlier work by the Rudin Center highlighted the dearth of information related to Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) in large central cities. Urban areas face different issues related to CSS since they must address CSS within the context of large populations and densities, built urban environments, and multiple modes for transportation among other factors. While this initial research identified key issues and provided some examples, it was clear that more work remains to be done in terms of assessing how CSS is used in practice in urban areas. The goal of the present research study, sponsored by the Mineta Transportation Institute, is to provide a more in-depth assessment of how CSS is used in practice in urban areas, touching upon the following points: a) how CSS is incorporated into basic planning, programming, and design; b) what kind of policies have grown out of this process or help guide it; c)how public participation and stakeholder involvement is carried out and measured; d) what kinds of obstacles exist to successfully incorporating CSS in practice; e) what kinds of decisions are finally made in terms of balancing the various needs related to parking, non-motorized traffic, safety and throughput. Recognizing that in California and in many other locations, key arterials are also part of the state highway systems, there will be discussion on the role played by the State and the municipality with an assessment of the types of coordination that are present or needed, and how that affects each of these issues. The resulting report would provide an assessment of these points, along with suggestions on best practices.

2009

Mode Shift in Transit-Underserved Neighborhoods in New York

Sponsored by University Transportation Research Center and US DOT

Abstract

Sponsored by the University Transportation Research Center (UTRC, Region 2), the goal of this research project is to improve the understanding of passengers’ behavior and the key factors inducing the use of public transportation alternatives, rather than personal mobility options. The central point that this research will make is that the transit under-served area (TUSA) market has a great potential to contribute to mode shift and ridership increase in public transit if the cost of driving continues to increase and the service of public transit continues to improve. Residents of TSUAs in New York City have plausible public transit options, provided certain modifications and their needs could be met cost-effectively without significant expansion of the existing network. This research aims to elaborate this point by exploring several TSUAs in New York City, and attaining the following goals: 1) to understand the multiple travel options that TUSA residents face; 2) to analyze current modal choice decisions and possible responses to policy interventions; and, 3) to draw policy implications that could help transit agencies recruit new customers from TUSAs, while retaining existing customers and building strong constituencies in this new era.

Measuring the Utility of Pedestrian Environment in Boston

Zhan Guo, Research Director and Assistant Professor or Urban Planning and Transportation Policy

Abstract

Walking is central to all types of travel. However, pedestrian infrastructure represents a challenge to the time and cost-based transportation planning paradigm. This is because the pace of walking is not normally a major concern, and pedestrians may prefer the company of other pedestrians to walking alone. Walking has been omitted from the transportation planning framework until very recently, and policy-makers continue to have difficulties in evaluating pedestrian-related projects and justifying their benefits. In many cases, pedestrian infrastructure remains a decoration instead of the foundation of the overall transportation system. To examine the issue further, this research measured the perceived utility of pedestrian infrastructure by observing pedestrian choices between two types of walking paths: a short, but poorly maintained path and a longer, amenable path. By quantifying the perception and converting it into a monetary or time value, planners can use this approach to expand the familiar time and cost frameworks to evaluate pedestrian-related projects. The research first tested whether such a trade-off exists using downtown Boston as a setting. Results showed that amenities such as sidewalk width and open space affect pedestrian path choices—many pedestrians choose indirect but more pleasant streets over more direct but less attractive streets. Subsequent work estimated the perceived utility of these pedestrian environment factors. For example, Boston Common, a public park, has a perceived utility of 2.9 minutes, or a 10-minute walk in Boston Common is perceived to be 7.1 minutes due to its amenities. Beacon Hill has a negative perception of 3.5 minutes, meaning that a 10-minute walk over its hilly topography is perceived to be 13.5 minutes. The research generated a utility map that shows the quantified amenities for each street as a whole and by individual features of the street in downtown Boston. Planners can use this map to locate street improvements in a large area, the type of improvements needed, and the costs and benefits of such improvements.

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Integrated Freight Demand Management in the NYC Metro Area, Phase 2

Other Academic Institutions: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Sponsored by U.S. Department of Transportation and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration

Abstract

This project is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) as the lead academic institution. The objectives of the study are to: a) design and develop a self-sustaining urban freight traffic management system for the New York City Metropolitan area integrating state of the art remote sensing technology, cutting edge freight demand management, traffic simulation, and policy; and b) combine revenue generation power of pricing, with tax deductions to receivers willing to accept off-peak deliveries, and GPS based traffic monitoring, to induce a shift of truck traffic to the off-hours. As part of this effort, institutional and policy challenges and alternatives need to be identified and assessed. The NYU Wagner Rudin Center is leading the public outreach activities by forming Advisory Groups, gathering the information needed to identify and assess the key institutional and policy issues relevant to freight demand management, leading consensus building workshop with stakeholders and describing a set of policies, institutional arrangements, and mechanisms that should be considered. Phase 2 of this project will include Implementation.

2008

Feasibility of Freight Villages in the New York Metropolitan Transportation Council Region

Other Academic Institutions: Rutgers University, the Center for Advanced Infrastructure & Transportation
Sponsored by University Transportation Research Center and New York Metropolitan Transportation Council

Abstract

A joint effort funded by NYMTC and led by the Center for Advanced Infrastructure & Transportation at Rutgers University, this study will determine the feasibility of developing freight villages in the NYMTC Region. The Rudin Center will be leading the effort related to public outreach, an important element of this study. The public outreach component of the project aims to engage the freight provider community, as well as community leaders, business leaders, and the general public through a series of outreach meetings that will be held around the region. The purpose of these outreach meetings is to: elicit comment and feedback on key aspects of the study and its initial findings; educate and inform the public in general; inform and discuss potential obstacles and solutions with the stakeholder community specifically; provide a reality check for key concepts; and, finally; report back the results of the study. Information gathered through the public outreach process will be incorporated throughout the study and into the final report.

NYMTC's Highway and Streets Planning Initiative

Abstract

The New York Metropolitan Transportation Council (NYMTC)'s Regional Transportation Plan includes an evaluation of the Region's highway needs, including infrastructure life cycle replacement and maintenance, levels of current congestion, 20 year forecasts of traffic growth and analysis of financial resources needed to meet the Region's needs. The Rudin Center is working with NYMTC members and staff to strengthen the analysis and recommendations of the highway portion of NYMTC's Regional Transportation Plan by (1) evaluating highway initiatives being used to address regional highway needs in this and other regions; (2) setting NYMTC's highway analysis and recommendations into a larger regional context that includes northern New Jersey, southwestern Connecticut and New York counties to the north of NYMTC's region; and (3) preparing a highway issues report and holding a conference on the region's highway needs that will illustrate and educate a broad audience including elected officials, agency heads, and department commissioners about the need to address this region's highway needs.

Strengthening Interjustisdictional Coordination on Transportation and Related Land Use: A Guide Book for Practitioners

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director
Sponsored by New York Metropolitan Transportation Council and the Region 2 University Transportation Research Center

Abstract

The publication “Strengthening Interjurisdictional Coordination on Transportation and Related Land Use – A Guidebook for Practitioners” is intended to facilitate better integration of land use and transportation planning. The guidebook is drawn from research on the jurisdictional barriers that have had an impact on greater integration of land use and transportation planning in a variety of recent planning studies. It provides training matrices, including on key success factors for interjurisdictional coordination. The guidebook builds on lessons learned from a representative sample of case studies, including the Air Train JFK project; the Route 202/35/6/Bear Mt. Pkwy Sustainable Development Study, Westchester County; Route 303 Sustainable Development Study, Rockland County; the Staten Island Transportation Task Force; and, the Sustainable East End Strategies (SEEDS)

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2007

Environmental Justice

Linda Spock, Visiting Scholar
Sponsored by New York State Department of Transportation

Abstract

At the request of the New York State Assembly Legislative Commission on Critical Transportation Choices, and funded by an appropriation made available from the New York Department of Transportation's budget, the Rudin Center completed a one-year study of Environmental Justice (EJ) in New York State. Conducted by Linda Spock, a Visiting Scholar to the Center, the study involved a literature search and interviews with various federal, state, and local agencies, transportation planning entities, and interested constituency groups to determine the extent of EJ activities throughout the state and especially in agencies related to transportation. The resulting report summarizes EJ activities within the state, compares the activities here with those in other states, and highlights key considerations for further study by New York State.

Fare Policy Regarding Regular and/or Inflation-related ("Programmed') Price Increases

Linda Spock,

Abstract

Historically, transit agencies have implemented fare increases largely on an "as needed" basis. In practice, this has resulted in relatively infrequent changes in fares which are often large in magnitude by virtue of the need to "catch up" on expenses since the previous fare change. This study examines an alternative approach to fare policy - "programmed fare increases" to keep up with expenses on a pre-determined regular basis. This report documents and synthesizes the experience of twelve transit agencies with programmed fare increases. Interestingly, many of the agencies did not know of each other's experience with similar fare policies prior to this study. While still the exception rather than the rule, the research shows that programmed fare increases can be viable across a range of transit agency sizes, organization types, and funding structures. Whatever their individual differences in policy and practice, the experiences of the agencies studied suggest the importance of clearly communicating the need for regular fare increases to transit customers in the context of agencies' efforts to maintain service, constrain costs, and address customer needs and concerns. Collectively, the limited but nonetheless significant experience of the case study agencies represented in this report sets a precedent for the practice of programmed fare increases. This report provides a resource for transit agencies' consideration of adopting programmed fare increases by documenting the actual experience and lessons learned by peer agencies to date.

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2006

Identifying and Reducing Institutional Barriers to Effective and Efficient Freight Management in Downstate New York Study

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director
Sponsored by New York State Department of Transportation

Abstract

This report is the culmination of a study, funded by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), that seeks to identify and recommend means for reducing one set of barriers--namely institutional barriers--to effective and efficient freight movement in the downstate New York region. The goals of the report are four-fold: (1) to identify and analyze institutional barriers to effective and efficient freight movement in the downstate New York region; (2) to identify potential means for overcoming such barriers; (3) to identify regional actions that could potentially improve the movement of freight in the downstate New York region; and (4) to identify a set of priority actions that could be taken. The findings of this report call for efforts aimed at increasing communication, sharing best practices, and gathering additional information.

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High-Speed Rail Projects in the United States: Identifying the Elements for Success - Part 2

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director
Other Academic Institutions: San Jose State University
Sponsored by Mineta Transportation Institute

Abstract

In August 2005, the Mineta Transportation Institute issued the report, High-Speed Rail Projects in the United States: Identifying the Elements for Success. The report noted that since the 1960s, high-speed ground transportation (HSGT) has "held the promise of fast, convenient, and environmentally sound travel for distances between 40 and 600 miles." After briefly discussing the different experiences with HSGT between the United States and its Asian and European counterparts, the report proceeded to review three U.S. cases-Florida, California, and the Pacific Northwest-as a means for identifying lessons learned for successfully implementing high-speed rail (HSR) in the United States. This report is, in essence, volume 2 of the previous study. Also using a comparative case study approach, this effort adds to the earlier work with three additional cases-the Chicago Hub, the Keystone Corridor, and the Northeast Corridor (NEC). As with the earlier report, the goal of this study is to identify lessons learned for successfully implementing HSR in the United States. Given the early stages of most of these projects, "success" is defined by whether a given HSR project is still actively pursuing development or funding. However, in the case of the Northeast Corridor, a fuller discussion of success is provided since HSR has been implemented on that corridor for some time now.

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Bi-State Domestic Freight Ferries

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director
Other Academic Institutions: The State University of New Jersey Rutgers, the Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center
Sponsored by Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

Abstract

This study, funded by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, explores the feasibility of freight ferries as an alternative for domestic truck freight movements that cross the Hudson River via existing bridges and tunnels. While 'mode shift' efforts, such as direct rail or barging of material, can reduce some truck movements, trucking will remain a dominant component of the region's freight system and traffic. At the same time, congestion is growing on the region's roadway system, making the evaluation of alternatives for truck movements more imperative.

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State Arterial Highway Peer City Review

Other Academic Institutions: Cornell University

Abstract

Negotiating the myriad of issues in dealing with city state arterial highways is of extreme interest to many large central cities around the United States. Issues abound regarding ownership, how such highways are funded both in terms of building and maintenance, and who is responsible for operations. What happens, for example, when the State owns the highway, but the City operates it? Often, the result is a constant tension between the needs and goals of the City and the State, not to mention the agencies involved. Moreover, even in those instances in which responsibilities are clear, those same responsibilities shift as soon as one gets to the border of the city even though the arterial highway may extend for many more miles beyond the city's jurisdiction. This creates another set of challenges in terms of coordinating neighboring jurisdictions. Understanding how other cities around the country deal with such issues will be of help for New York State and New York City. Within the scope of this study, the Rudin Center identified a set of peer cities around the country and compared and contrasted these cities in an effort to draw some lessons learned that will inform the situation in New York. Specific areas of interest included, but were not limited to: funding, mandates, building, operating, managing, and maintaining highway arterials, and institutional communication and coordination related to such arterials.

Pedestrian and Bicyclist Standards and Innovations in Large Central Cities

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director
Sponsored by US DOT Federal Highway Administration

Abstract

After conducting the successful Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) in Large Central Cities workshop in June 2003, the Rudin Center and the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) agreed that in tackling other areas of concern for large central cities, it would be useful to employ the same format. NACTO identified the issue of pedestrian and bicyclist standards and innovations as a key area in need of further exploration, and the Federal Highway Administration agreed to provide funding. Thus, the Rudin Center conducted a two phase project involving research of the issue, a workshop for exchanging knowledge and ideas, and a summary report outlining steps for moving forward.

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2005

High-Speed Rail Projects in the United States: Identifying the Elements for Success - Part 1

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director
Other Academic Institutions: San Jose State University
Sponsored by Mineta Transportation Institute

Abstract

Working together with San José State University, the Rudin Center was involved in an effort on high-speed rail (HSR), funded by the Mineta Transportation Institute. The goal of this study was to identify those lessons learned for successfully developing and implementing HSR in the United States. Given the early stages of these projects, "success" cannot be based on implementation, but will be based upon whether a given HSR project is still actively pursuing development and/or funding. The work proceeded in two phases. Phase 1 constitutes a literature review that looks back to federal (and where warranted, state) legislation to determine what was intended in terms of objectives and criteria identified in the legislation; and briefly assesses all HSR efforts in the United States since 1980 to determine their history and current status. Phase 2 includes a more in-depth study of several of these cases along with a number of interviews. The study provides a unique and valuable contribution to the field by providing a much-needed and strong foundation upon which additional research in this area could be based.

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2004

Assessment of Border Crossing Needs in New York State

Sponsored by University Transportation Research Center

Abstract

Canada is the United State's strongest trading partner, exceeding trade with Mexico and with the European Union. On land, this trade flows through 22 principal border crossings between the United States and Canada, with 90% of the value and three-quarters of the tonnage and truck trips originating in or destined for locations beyond the border states. Three of the six crossings are in New York State. However, up to one-half of the trips originate in or are destined for locations beyond the border states. Thus, while they generate economic value nationally, the burdens they bring are concentrated in border states. Recognizing the significance of the border states and the need for transportation corridors throughout the country to facilitate the projected growth in trade, Congress established the Coordinated Border Infrastructure Program and the National Corridor Planning and Development Program in 1998. However, these programs have fallen short of their goals, principally as a result of under-funding and earmarking. If the current funding levels and practices of the Borders and Corridors Program continue, there is concern that freight volume at the key crossings in New York will continue to grow without the ability to effectively and efficiently service it. This study assesses the implications for New York State and for the country if New York's border and corridor needs are unmet.

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The Impact of MTA Capital Spending

Mark Seaman,

Abstract

In 1981, with New York's transit system in a state of near-collapse, the state legislature asked New York's transit authority, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), to begin regular five-year planning of its capital program. Since that time, the MTA has developed five successive plans aimed at bringing the system to a state of good repair. With the current plan coming to a close and a new plan slated for release later this year, the Rudin Center is taking a close look at the transportation and economic impacts that have occurred as a result of these five-year plans. The study reviews the rationale for the initial five-year capital program, examines the relationship between particular capital investments and subsequent performance improvements (if any), and looks at how transit investment may have impelled economic development in the New York region. The study also explores the potential multiplier and economic development effects of future capital spending.

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At Capacity: The Need for More Rail Access to the Manhattan CBD

Rosemary Scanlon, Clinical Associate Professor and Academic Director, Schack Institute of Real Estate

Abstract

Written by Rosemary Scanlon and Edward Seeley, this report examines the relationship between proposed transit system capacity improvements in the downstate metropolitan area, the updated post 9-11 job projections for the Manhattan Central Business District, and regional economic growth. It further explores a number of key issues Ed Seeley first covered in a highly publicized report on these topics for the New York City Department of Transportation in 1997. The findings of this report are relevant to the current discussions concerning the next MTA Five Year program. Ensuring that the MTA maintains a state of good repair and normal replacement is the highest priority of most, if not all transportation policy experts for the next 5 year capital program. Nonetheless, as historians and planners have frequently asserted, New York's growth and prosperity has consistently been tied to additions and improvements to its transportation network and this report suggests this is likely to be the case in the foreseeable future.

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Evaluation Study of the PANYNJ's Value Pricing Initiative: Task 5 - Monitoring of Media and Decision-Makers' Reactions

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director

Abstract

Part of a larger project assessing the efficacy of value pricing and changes in the toll schedule on Port Authority facilities, the Rudin Center documented the decision-making process leading up to and immediately following the implementation of value pricing so as to derive lessons learned that could be utilized when implementing similar programs elsewhere.

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2003

Funding Analysis for Long-Term Planning

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director

Abstract

In 2000, the U.S. Department of Transportation estimated annual investment needs over the next 20 years of $56.6 billion for highways and bridges and $10.8 billion for transit, simply to maintain the nation's existing infrastructure. At the same time, current baseline projections from the Congressional Budget Office show that the Highway Account of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) will be depleted by 2006 and that the Mass Transit Account balance will fall to $0 three years later. In the swirl of debate on reauthorization of federal transportation funding, these projections have spurred a number of recommendations aimed at shoring up the financial base of the HTF. This study, conducted by the Rudin Center's Co-Director, Allison L. C. de Cerreño, explored the fragility of the current means for funding the Highway Trust Fund. The report elaborates on the causes of this fragility, analyzes the various proposals for bolstering the fund, and provides an assessment of the potential impact on New York.

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Context Sensitive Solutions in Large Central Cities

Sponsored by Federal Highway Administration and National Association of City Transportation Officials.

Abstract

On June 19 - June 20, 2003, the Rudin Center hosted a peer-to-peer exchange session, funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and supported by the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), on context sensitive design/solutions (CDS/S) in large central cities. Participants at the session were drawn from departments of transportation or public works in nine major cities (Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York City, and Philadelphia) and three states (Illinois, Maryland, and New York). Representatives also attended from the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO), and FHWA. Representatives from the NACTO cities agreed that understanding CSD/S and sharing lessons learned and best practices is important for central cities and that because of their unique role in the nation's economy and society there is something fundamentally different about large central cities that renders illustrations from less urbanized areas insufficient. The goal of the session was to lay a foundation for dealing with standards, processes, and the implementation of context sensitive solutions and to identify specific examples that could be used as benchmarks for lessons learned and best practices.

Dividing the Pie: Placing the Transportation Donor-Donee Debate in Perspective

Mark Seaman,

Abstract

Disparities in the financial flows between the federal government and the states have been a source of contention for several decades as states seek to receive what they consider an equitable share of federal funding. How to define "equitable" is a source of debate in itself, but one that cannot even begin to be addressed until specific facts and figures are known. A series of reports, referred to as the "Fisc reports" have gone a long way to providing such data and have shown, for example, that New York's total balance of payments deficit with the federal government in FY99 was the fourth largest in the country, behind California, Illinois, and New Jersey. In non-defense discretionary spending, which includes transportation, New York ranked 41 out of the 50 states. However, the category of non-defense discretionary spending includes numerous Federal programs in agriculture, education, environmental protection, housing, and national parks as well as transportation. The goal of this project was to assess New York's proportional share of federal funding specifically for transportation and, in particular, transit. Conducted over a period of six months, beginning in November 2002, the study resulted in Dividing the Pie: Placing the Transportation Donor-Donee Debate in Perspective, by Mark Seaman and Allison L. C. de Cerreño, which provides an accurate picture of the status of federal funding to the states.

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2002

On-Street Parking Study

Allison de Cerreno, Co-Director
Sponsored by United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration

Abstract

Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, as part of its Metropolitan Capacity Building Program, the goals of this study were four-fold: (1) to identify and review comprehensively on-street parking policies and management practices in large cities; (2) to determine the impact that parking has on transportation, development, and land-use; (3) to recommend best practice strategies for parking in large cities; and, (4) to facilitate a practical exchange between cities of information to improve parking policy and management. Conducted by the Rudin Center's Co-Director, Allison L. C. de Cerreño, the study involved a literature review, a questionnaire to which nine large central cities responded, and a peer-to-peer exchange session. The resulting report makes a significant contribution to the literature on on-street parking and outlines best practices to be shared with city officials around the country.

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Intelligent Transportation Systems

Henry Peyrebrune, Visiting Scholar

Abstract

Through the same request and appropriation as the EJ project, the Rudin Center also undertook a study of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) with the purpose of providing a comprehensive review of how they relate to New York State transportation programs and policy. The study was led by Henry Peyrebrune, a Rudin Center Visiting Scholar. Phase I painted, in broad brush strokes, a picture of the various ITS activities around the state and outlined 10 key issues for further research; Phase II focused in on three of those issues: (1) the use of ITS for national and state security in light of the terrorists attacks of 9/11/01; (2) institutional issues regarding information sharing and program coordination; and, (3) ITS as a safety and enforcement tool, with a case study on increased truck traffic at the Hunts Point Market in the Bronx.

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