OTREC-RR-12-13

This study examines how urban context affects vehicle trip-generation for a variety of land uses. A survey was administered at 78 restaurants, convenience stores, and drinking establishments. Results show vehicle-trips decrease in urban neighborhoods. Comparison with ITE trip-generation rates indicates a need for local adjustment for convenience stores and drinking establishments. While restaurants are well predicted by the ITE method, vehicle-trip rate adjustment match observed patterns more closely. A model was developed using the Urban Living Infrastructure (ULI) score from the Metro Context Tool. It has a good statistical fit and is easy to use in evaluating new development. The model is useful in planning as it relates to other built-environment measures. Study findings are limited in several ways. Work planned for the future includes validation of the method using data from additional sites, and analysis of such attributes as parking, building orientation and pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.