Swept path analysis (also referred to as vehicle tracking) is a core technical component of traffic engineering and site access review. It evaluates whether design vehicles can safely and realistically maneuver through intersections, site accesses, parking areas, and constrained roadway environments. For transportation planners, civil engineers, and approving agencies, swept path analysis provides defensible evidence […]
In modern urban planning, streets are no longer just about moving cars efficiently. A Complete Street is designed to safely accommodate all users; drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, and people with disabilities. By prioritizing accessibility, safety, and connectivity, complete streets make communities more livable, sustainable, and vibrant. At Arterials, we help cities and developers understand
This glossary provides a comprehensive reference of commonly used abbreviations in transportation and traffic engineering. It covers terminology relevant to traffic studies, transportation planning, pavement design, and transit operations. Each entry includes a concise definition, with links to detailed guides or tools on Arterials.co, offering a reliable resource for professionals, planners, and students alike. Transportation
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are a core technical skill across urban planning, transportation engineering, environmental management, infrastructure development, and spatial data science. For students and young professionals entering the geospatial industry, one of the most common questions is: Should I learn ArcGIS Pro or QGIS? This article provides a technical, career-focused comparison of ArcGIS Pro
Estimating ridership is the single most important early exercise in mass transit planning. A realistic ridership estimate tells you whether a scheme is worth designing, what level of service you should provide, and whether further investment in full demand modelling is warranted. This guide explains how to estimate ridership using both simple, defensible methods and
Why Public Transit Needs Climate Resilience Public transit systems—buses, metros, trams, and commuter rail—are the lifeblood of urban mobility. As cities grow, they are also frontline services in the fight against climate change. But extreme weather events pose new challenges: flooded bus depots, overheated rail tracks, disrupted power supplies, and stranded passengers. To maintain reliable,
Why Climate Resilience Matters Climate change is no longer a distant risk—it is a present-day reality. Rising temperatures, heavier rainfall, stronger storms, and frequent flooding are directly affecting how transport systems operate. Road and rail networks, designed for “historical” weather conditions, are increasingly vulnerable to climate extremes that disrupt connectivity, raise maintenance costs, and endanger
A Transportation Master Plan (TMP) is a comprehensive, long-term strategic document that guides the development, management, and investment in a community’s transportation system. It ensures that transportation networks, roads, public transit, walking, cycling, and freight are planned in a coordinated way to meet current needs while accommodating future growth. TMPs are typically prepared for cities,
Fleet size refers to the total number of vehicles, vessels, or aircraft an organization owns or operates at a given time. While the definition sounds simple, the meaning and implications of fleet vary across industries—from public transit agencies and airlines to trucking companies, taxi services, and construction fleets. Whether you manage buses, trains, airplanes, or
