The previous study, RP 2024-014: Measuring the Economic, Mobility, and Health Benefits of Multimodal Projects, established a strong foundation for evaluating multimodal transportation projects in North Carolina. This research produced a Multimodal Benefits Analysis Tool, designed to evaluate the economic, physical health, and mobility benefits that accrue when co-locating a bicycle and pedestrian facility with existing transit or ferry networks. By using a data-driven geospatial approach, the study demonstrated how multimodal connections can improve access to employment and medical points of interest and improve overall mobility.
The next step is to obtain a deeper understanding of the planning needs of NCDOT’s Integrated Mobility Division (IMD) and provide guidance on how the tool can be used to help advance these needs. Specifically, the proposed work will focus on translating the technical research into a user-friendly guidebook, a training presentation, and a webinar. These products will provide step-by-step guidance on using the Multimodal Benefits Analysis Tool, highlight relevant case applications, and ensure that IMD staff can apply the tool consistently to align with departmental planning objectives.
By providing training and outreach materials, this effort will allow IMD to operationalize the Multimodal Benefits Analysis Tool as part of its planning processes. The guidebook will serve as a detailed reference for staff, the training presentation will support both internal and external discussions, and the recorded webinar will provide a long-standing resource that documents how to use the tool. Together, these products will extend the impact of the earlier study, helping IMD incorporate multimodal benefits into planning and prioritization in a way that is scalable and sustainable.
