This paper describes the development and application of a multi-modal microsimulation model for the Greater Eureka Area (GEA), a small community of 25,000 in Northern California. The travel demand model for the GEA was used to develop estimates of the traffic demand for base and forecast years. A rigorous data collection and calibration effort was made to calibrate the simulation model for the base year. The simulation of pedestrian activity and bus routes is included in the model. The application is unique in its methods and in its ultimate objective. First, the microsimulation model was developed on a geographic information system platform shared with the travel demand model, allowing the fusion of geographic information and the application of geographic analysis methods to assist in the refinement of peak period trip tables for simulation. The travel demand model was used to develop initial estimates of the traffic demand. Additional analysis was performed to develop a dynamic temporal profile in the demand. Simulation-based dynamic traffic assignment methods were used to calibrate route choices in the model. Second, the microsimulation model was designed not for a specific and finite project in the common tradition of planning and engineering practice but for the purpose of becoming a living model to be adopted and maintained by local authorities for use in all manner of planning and traffic impact studies, both big and small, throughout the city. Thus, the microsimulation model will serve as a natural corollary and complement to the travel demand model. A variety of alternatives, including the additional lanes on a key corridor and traffic signal optimization, are analyzed to demonstrate the effectiveness of microsimulation for improving the estimates of project impacts in the planning context. In addition to serving as an illustrative case study for the application of microsimulation in small and medium-sized communities, this paper demonstrates the advantages of geographic information system (GIS) for making the development of a microsimulation model for small and medium-sized communities feasible and cost-effective. Lessons learned and guidance for similar applications elsewhere are provided.
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