Understand Multi-Modal LOS Options
Conventional methods for calculating Level of Service (LOS) for a road or intersection only address the experience of one set of users: vehicle drivers. This simple fact has broad implications, because LOS is often used as the primary (or sometimes the only) metric of transportation system performance. Over the past several years, the transportation planning field has seen a profusion of new methods for calculating LOS that claim to account for the experiences of a much wider range of road users. But local agencies may be confused by all of the options, and unsure about which method would best meet their needs and reflect their community’s values.
Fehr & Peers has assembled a Multi-Modal Level of Service (MMLOS) Toolkit to help agency staff cut through the confusion. Through extensive research and testing, we have identified 16 different LOS methods that have some level of multi-modal capabilities. The MMLOS Toolkit is a web-based interface that organizes the LOS methods by mode (auto, transit, bike, etc.) and by setting (urban, suburban, rural), so users can identify methods that most closely address their unique situation. Users can drill down on the selected methods for fact sheet on each, with information on its applicability, advantages, shortcomings, and data/software requirements.
Urban Transportation Monitor Survey Results on MMLOS (March 22, 2013)
DIRECTIONS: Start by choosing a travel mode on the left-hand side, and follow the prompts. If desired, you may also click directly on a specific tool on the right-hand side.