This study explored how crowdsourced data can be used to better understand cross-border trips and travel patterns. Transportation officials can use these results to develop robust, data-driven policies regarding cross-border trips that, in turn, should make for more efficient, safe, and secure travel.
News
Inviting Border Transit Agencies into the Capacity, QoS Conversation
Transit agencies across the nation reference the Transit Capacity and Quality-of-Service Manual (TCQSM). Now in its third edition, the TCQSM gives guidance on transit capacity and quality-of-service (QoS) issues, as well as techniques for measuring operational characteristics.
[Read more…] about Inviting Border Transit Agencies into the Capacity, QoS Conversation
Piloting LiDAR Sensors to Enhance Border Traffic Information
by Jason Wu
The El Paso/Ciudad Juárez region is one of the world’s largest binational border metropolises. Multiple border crossings with heavy traffic (like this region has) can cause logistical challenges for transportation agencies. Secure, efficient technology solutions — including those that leverage the benefits of intelligent transportation systems — can help agencies while helping to guide traffic safely through the border.
[Read more…] about Piloting LiDAR Sensors to Enhance Border Traffic Information
Applying AI, Drones and Satellites to Improve Border Transportation
by Alejandro Berlanga Alzaga and Valeria Martinez
When you think of drones, you may think of a package getting delivered to your doorstep. Many companies conduct flight missions of drones for delivering goods, but other applications for drones can benefit the public (and commercial vehicle drivers) in another way — travel across the border.
[Read more…] about Applying AI, Drones and Satellites to Improve Border Transportation
2018 Report: Estimating Economic Impact of Commercial Vehicle Border Delays in Real Time
A research team developed an implementation plan for a web-based economic impact estimation dashboard. The dashboard uses real-time data on economic costs of border delays in the El Paso–Ciudad Juárez region. This study updates work conducted in 2009 and 2010 on this topic.
New Report: Exploration of Cross-Border Trip Characteristics Using Crowdsourced Data
This report explores cross-border trip characteristics using crowdsourced data, primarily focusing on INRIX data. The research team identified several cross-border travel patterns at El Paso–Ciudad Juárez land ports of entry and noted trends related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
New Report: Contact Tracing to Maintain Mobility at the Border during a Pandemic
TTI researchers evaluated contact-tracing apps, a commonly used practice to slow down the spread of COVID-19, with a focus on the El Paso-Juarez region. Taking advantage of mobile technology is expected to help in transitioning back to daily life while managing the risk of future outbreaks.
Balancing COVID Concerns with Economic Need: Reduced Mobility, Vaccination Are Key to Halting the (or Any) Pandemic
by Okan Gurbuz
Restricting travel has proven vital to stemming the tide of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially early on. Less human contact in tight spaces means less exposure to the virus—that’s a given. But reduced contact also means reduced commerce, at least for businesses depending on in-person customers.
Contact Tracing to Minimize Infection, Maximize Mobility at the U.S.-Mexico Border
by Okan Gurbuz
With the recent introduction of the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus, opening the world back up to regular commerce and human interaction has once again become problematic. Although global vaccine distribution continues at a healthy pace, how quickly mask mandates are lifted and businesses are open continue to be regulated at the local level in the United States. This lack of a central controlling authority — and the reliable regulation of interactions such direction would facilitate — further complicate getting the COVID-19 pandemic under control.
Return on Investment: Transportation Projects Can More than Pay for Themselves in Benefits
Roads, bridges, bike lanes and other transportation infrastructure are not free. Even so, enhancing our transportation system with projects like these can save significant dollars in the long run. As a transportation economist, calculating the cost benefits of a proposed project is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.