TRB's National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Synthesis 361: Visualization for Project Development explores the visual representation of proposed alternatives and improvements and their associated effects on the existing surroundings. The report examines the best practices and experiences within transportation agencies that are developing and incorporating visualization into the project development process.

Visualization is the visual representation of proposed project alternatives and improvements and their associated impacts on the existing surroundings. The technology uses a vast array of tools to assist transportation agencies in the decision-making process for planning and design.

Traditionally, visualization has been used to convey the final design to decision makers, stakeholders, and the public. Today, some transportation agencies are finding new ways to integrate visualization into the project development process.

This synthesis focuses on the best practices and experiences to date of leading transportation agencies that are developing and incorporating visualization into the "preconstruction" component of the project development process.

Information was acquired through interviews with various transportation agencies, universities, and consultants across the United States. A survey questionnaire was sent to the agencies in advance of the interview to assist in preparation for the interview. Additional information was acquired by means of the Internet and by a review of previous AASHTO and TRB documentation concerning the uses of visualization.

External Links:

More Information: www.trb.org/news/blurb_detail.asp?ID=6911

Further Reading:

NCHRP Synthesis 361: Visualization for Project Development - A Synthesis of Highway Practice