This month’s issue of ITE Journal is dedicated to creating complete, connected mobility systems. On the surface, that concept seems like a no-brainer—delivering a complete mobility system that serves all users, including drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, freight operators, and individuals with disabilities. Most of us recognize, however, that we’re still (slowly) working through legacy designs that didn’t consider all users equally, and we’re still dealing with 19th- and 20th-century land use policies that were siloed.
Our profession has made a concerted evolution in the right direction. As communities grow and travel behaviors evolve, transportation networks have moved beyond isolated projects, and we’re starting to function as cohesive ecosystems. There are plenty of examples where principles such as multimodal integration; complete streets; prioritizing investments in sidewalks and bike infrastructure; and engaging communities in the planning process have helped us make progress.
Technology has played a transformative role in connecting mobility systems. Intelligent transportation systems (ITS), real-time data, and mobile applications empower users with information that enhances decision-making. Travelers can plan trips, compare options, and adjust in real time based on conditions. Meanwhile, agencies can and do use data analytics to optimize operations, manage demand, and improve system performance. A connected system ensures that each mode integrates with the others to provide efficient, safe, and reliable journeys.
The use of technology has also helped us better see that the silos are not just institutional; they can be technical as well. I’ll never forget when I was working as a consultant, a client said, “We’ll sprinkle a few ramp meters here and there; that should help.” It took massive restraint to not jump out of my skin and instead calmly explain that it doesn’t work that way—it needs to be part of a connected network, with ramp meters working in concert, in succession, along with detection and variable speed advisories on the mainline, coupled with regular signage to help manage incidents and delays, and most importantly a strong public education campaign and collaboration with local communities in the vicinity of those ramps.
Yes, collaboration is another important key. Creating a connected mobility system requires coordination across agencies, jurisdictions, and disciplines. Transportation departments, transit agencies, local governments, and private sector partners must work together toward shared goals. This includes establishing common data standards, aligning funding strategies, conducting outreach to community organizations, and adhering to basic people-centered planning and engineering.
ITE has a People-Centered Mobility Great Idea Group where professionals of all disciplines and backgrounds can get together and share best practices and strengthen their own professional skills in this area. A special thank you to Dale Bracewell, P.Eng. (M), and Kelly Rodgers (M), who co-chair this volunteer group as part of our Planning Council.
By focusing on integration, technology, land use, and collaboration, communities can create systems that are not only efficient but also inclusive and resilient. The result is a transportation network that better serves everyone—today and into the future.