Overview

Andy worked on various intersection modelling project while seconded to TfNSW. The following provides an example of his role in such projects.

Project Background:

An intersection was flagged by TfNSW transport planners in the Integrated Transport Action Plan (2021) for upgrades due to its history of traffic incidents, particularly right-through crashes. This intersection, located on a main thoroughfare, was known for congestion issues that not only slowed journey times but also posed risks to vehicular and pedestrian safety. 

Scope and Objectives:

To address these challenges, a rapid appraisal conducted in late 2021 identified the need for significant upgrades, including the introduction of dual right turn lanes to facilitate safer and more efficient vehicle movements. In 2023, the Technical Services Road Design team initiated strategic design development for these upgrades. They then approached the TfNSW Transport Modelling team (where Andy was seconded) to develop a series of SIDRA models.

Role

Andy, leveraging his extensive experience in transport modelling, undertook a critical role in ensuring the project's success through the following tasks:

1. Scoping: Supervised the project scoping, ensuring clear definition and agreement on project requirements.
2. Base Model Development: Led the transformation of raw traffic count data into refined SIDRA model inputs. This process encompassed data conversion, detailed analysis, and the meticulous coding of intersection configurations, including T2 lanes and signal timing.
3. Responding to Peer Review: Actively responded to feedback from the peer review of the base model, refining and adjusting the model based on external expert evaluations to enhance accuracy and reliability.
4. Future Growth Modelling: Spearheaded the development of future traffic scenarios by integrating projections from the Sydney Traffic Forecasting Model (STFM) and adjusting base flows to reflect anticipated future demand.
5. Options Testing: Conducted comprehensive testing of various intersection configurations within the SIDRA model, applying traffic engineering judgment to refine and validate proposed solutions.
6. Finalizing Future Models: Upon completion of future model development, Andy meticulously prepared for and addressed feedback from the second round of peer review, ensuring the final models met all project and accuracy criteria.
7. Client Engagement: Worked closely with TfNSW's transport planning team, addressing queries and providing expert insights to support decision-making.
8. Project Handover: Compiled and delivered an exhaustive package of project documentation, including surveys, forecasts, processed input files, and SIDRA outputs, ensuring a complete and accessible record for future reference.
   

Outcomes

Andy, was seconded into the Model Planning Team at Transport for NSW (TfNSW). This team provides support to translate project needs to assumptions that are applied to models and forecast outcomes. The team also works closely with both the stakeholder and the transport modelling team to improve modelling literacy for their customers. The team is dedicated to maintaining the procedures, glossary, governance, and assumptions for models across TfNSW.

The SIDRA model played a pivotal role in evaluating the proposed intersection upgrades, providing a detailed analysis of traffic behaviour during peak periods and enabling precise estimation of intersection delays. These insights were instrumental in validating the design's objectives to improve safety and journey efficiency through strategic modifications.

Andy's proactive engagement with the peer review process and his dedication to refining the project models highlight the consultancy's commitment to delivering data-driven solutions. This case study underscores the significant impact of collaborative planning, expert modelling, and responsive project management in enhancing urban transport safety and efficiency.