This report documents the findings and outcome of Austroads project NT1788. The outcome of NT1788 was a level of service (LOS) framework for network operations from the perspective of all road users. The purpose of the framework is to enable road agencies to undertake integrated planning and decision-making within the context of network operation planning. The LOS framework is to be applied at a link level within a road network and enables a better understanding of what is considered to be an appropriate LOS for various road users and their needs. The LOS framework can be used to identify the functional objectives of a link (e.g. increase cyclist LOS) which may then influence decisions by users as to the mode of travel (e.g. may travel by bicycle due to increased LOS). The use of the LOS framework as outlined in this document will supplement, rather than replace, the need for use of detailed computer modelling analysis tools to verify the impacts of proposed changes without implementing schemes as part of the design process. The users incorporated into the LOS framework include motorists, transit users, freight, pedestrians and cyclists. The transport needs incorporated into the LOS framework include mobility, safety, access, information and amenity needs. Incorporating the various users and transport needs into the LOS framework, allows road agencies to observe trade-offs in LOS which can assist them in better balancing the competing demands for road space. The LOS framework was developed across the following three step process as documented in this report: 1. literature review: examined current and best practice with respect to the application of LOS to road user experiences 2. consultation: consulted with stakeholders in order to calibrate the findings of the literature review and to develop and refine the LOS framework based on local experience, knowledge and objectives 3. case studies: refined the LOS framework through applying it to real-life case studies. The final LOS framework developed as part of this project is outlined in the appendix. Through its application it was found that the LOS framework developed for various transport needs and users can be: • easily applied without the need for data, therefore enabling it to be completed at low cost • used to highlight trade-offs between users and between transport needs which can aid in making better decisions and balancing competing demands • used as a quick reference guide as to what issues should be considered in the development of a project and therefore what design aspects should be incorporated • used in network fit assessment to identify LOS gaps and what aspects should be incorporated into a project in order to achieve a higher LOS. The project found the LOS framework to be useful, it also identified the need for further work including; application of weightings to obtain one LOS rating per link, using the LOS framework for rapid cost benefit analysis (i.e. gauge benefits by noting the change in LOS to needs not easily measured such as amenity); conversion of the LOS framework to an electronic format; and modifying the LOS framework so that it may be applied for a 'quick' network fit assessment. (Author/publisher)
Abstract