Project
Smart Mobility Challenge: Traffic Impact of CSX Pittsburgh Intermodal Rail Terminal and Mitigation Plans for McKees Rocks
In-depth simulation of the traffic impact of a proposed CSX intermodal rail terminal at McKees Rocks, evaluating mitigation strategies including the West Carson Street Extension and truck routing optimization.
- LeadSean Qian
- FunderTraffic 21 / Mobility 21 National University Transportation Center
- Years2017–2018
A CSX intermodal rail terminal planned for McKees Rocks and Stowe Township, PA was projected to handle approximately 50,000 lifts per year initially and 136,000 lifts per year at full buildout (2023). The facility would generate substantial truck traffic via improved access through Michael Alley to Island Avenue.
The team conducted an in-depth analysis of the potential traffic impact at high temporal and spatial resolutions using traffic study data and CMU datasets. We employed simulation modeling to evaluate individual vehicle route choices, travel times, and mixed traffic conditions, producing metrics including travel time, delay, vehicle-miles-traveled, and emissions by road segment and intersection.
The analysis examined mitigation strategies, specifically the West Carson Street Extension and truck routing optimization.
Selected publication
Sean Qian et al. (2017), "Modeling heterogeneous traffic flow: a pragmatic approach," Transportation Research Part B, Vol. 99, pp. 183–204.