Moderator(s): Kevin Hall, Texas A&M Transportation Institute

Session Description
This session explores innovative modeling approaches and policy strategies to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and advance better land use and transportation planning. Presenters will highlight how land use densification in Colorado’s gateway communities can address housing affordability and reduce vehicle miles traveled through more efficient travel behavior. A scenario-based analysis shows how compact, mixed-use development influences VMT and mode share, providing insights applicable across recreational regions.

From the Lake Tahoe Region, attendees will learn how big data integration and enhanced travel modeling—including detailed nonmotorized networks—can refine understanding of visitor travel patterns and inform infrastructure investment. This project also introduces an interactive dashboard that visualizes regional and per capita VMT across user groups.

Finally, the Texas Travel Demand Model Clearinghouse showcases how TxDOT improved project transparency, team coordination, and deliverable tracking across 20+ urban areas using a centralized digital platform with interactive dashboards and tiered user access.

Together, these presentations offer data-driven frameworks and tools that support and streamline fair and efficient land use and transportation system development.