Citation

Sisiopiku VP. J. Urban Plann. Dev. 2007; 133(1): 51-60.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, American Society of Civil Engineers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In the event of a disaster, emergency preparedness is necessary to ensure transportation system efficiency, safety, and security. Emergency scenario development and evaluation is needed to understand problem magnitude and develop effective emergency preparedness plans. The author discusses a project where Birmingham, Alabama-area emergency response scenarios were developed and tested. Major area traffic corridors were modeled into a regional transportation network using CORSIM traffic simulation software. The regional network model was then used in the testing and evaluation of natural or human-caused disaster emergency management strategies. Appropriate measures of effectiveness (MOEs) for preparedness and response were selected to support the region-wide and/or corridor level assessment process. MOEs formed the basis of candidate response action comparison and evaluation and best practices and need recommendations were developed. The article showcases microscopic traffic simulation utility for regional emergency preparedness and highlights large scale microscopic simulation model development opportunities and challenges. Public safety agencies and regional transportation officials can use study findings to implement effective traffic management strategies if a regional emergency actually occurs.