What are "traffic generation rates"?

Traffic generation rates refer to the estimates of the number of trips that are produced by a particular land use or development over a specific time period. These rates are critical for forecasting the impact of new developments on the surrounding transportation infrastructure, helping planners and engineers understand how many vehicles will likely enter or exit a site. This information is essential during the planning phase of a project to ensure that there are adequate roadways, traffic signals, and other infrastructure in place to accommodate the anticipated traffic volume.

This concept is often grounded in empirical studies that analyze existing developments, enabling the creation of trip generation tables or models. These tools provide a systematic way to quantify traffic flows based on the characteristics of the land use, such as residential, commercial, or industrial facilities. By using these rates effectively, engineers and planners can make informed decisions that promote traffic safety and efficiency.