Transportation Project Questionnaire

Operational Improvements and Congestion Management Questionnaire

Project Information

Agency Name	Harris County Engineering
Project Title	Harris County Precinct 1 Traffic Signal Intersection Improvement Project
Facility/Street/Highway	Various
Limits	Nineteen (19) intersection locations (See "PCT1 Traffic Signal Intersectio" Tab)
Description	The proposed project focuses on critical traffic signal and intersection improvements in Precinct 1 at 19 intersection locations. The project will improve signal operations, safety and connectivity, and will reduce traffic congestion and vehicular emissions.
Timeframe	Short Term (0-5 Years)
Estimated Cost	$12,350,000.00

Investment Category-Focused Criteria

1. Is the project located on a facility listed on Texas 100 most congested roads list?

1b. If no, please provide the existing peak period travel time index (TTI) of the facility where proposed project is located.

1.25 – 1.50

1b-i. Provide a narrative describing the existing congestion where proposed project is located and describe narrative to explain methodology to calculate existing TTI.

The 19 proposed signal improvements are located along six corridors, which have high congestion percentages, ranging from 11% to 25%. Five of the six corridors are major thoroughfares that play a critical role in transporting users to nearby freeways, and one corridor is a local street (Gears), which serves as a collector between two major thoroughfares. Travel Time Index (TTI) and congestion percentages were calculated using the StreetLight Insight platform metrics. The current TTI for each corridor was calculated by dividing free-flow speed by the average speed during peak hours of congestion; the congestion percentage was calculated by finding the free-flow factor (the average speed at peak hour divided by the free-flow speed) and subtracting it from 1. The project's average TTI and congestion percentage were weighted based on the corridor length. The weighted average TTI for this project is 1.25, and the weighted congestion percentage is 20%.

2. What is the estimated TTI after project is implemented?

1.0 – 1.25

2a. Provide a narrative describing the existing congestion where proposed project is located. Within the narrative explain the methodology and data used to calculate existing Travel Time Index (TTI).

The project corridor was analyzed by the Harris County Engineering Traffic Department using Highway Capacity Software model to determine level of service before and the proposed improvements. The analysis inputs included number of travel lanes, lane width, median condition, left and right-side clearance, seed limit, and 3-year projected AADT. Using the results of the analysis, specifically the decrease in delay, the same methodology that was used to determine current TTI was then used to calculate the reduction in TTI for the project.

3. Please provide a narrative to describe congestion management strategies and improvements (work types) proposed to reduce congestion on facility where the proposed project is located.

Based on the 2021 Congestion Management Process, the project to replace and upgrade traffic signals in Harris County Precinct 1 aligns with several strategies for improving congestion management. The document categorizes strategies into seven main areas: Transportation/Travel Demand Management, Land Use, Public Transportation, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and Transportation Systems Management, Roadway/Mobility, Bicycle and Pedestrian, Roadway Capacity Expansion, and Freight. Here's how the project aligns with these strategies: 1. Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) and Transportation Systems Management: The project involves installing modern traffic signal equipment to withstand extreme weather and flooding. This aligns with ITS strategies to best use existing roadway capacity through signal coordination, incident management, and traveler information systems, aiming to reduce travel time, stops, and delays and improve safety. 2. Roadway/Mobility (Non-ITS): By upgrading traffic signals and potentially adjusting site layouts, the project contributes to non-capacity-adding improvements. These enhancements, like access management and intersection improvements, aim to relieve bottlenecks and improve system operations, indirectly supporting a Complete Streets policy that integrates various modes of transportation. 3. Bicycle and Pedestrian: Including pedestrian crossings in the traffic signal upgrades promotes safer and more accessible walking and cycling infrastructure. This strategy facilitates a shift towards non-motorized modes of transport, reducing single-occupancy vehicle trips and contributing to improved air quality and multimodal travel. 4. Transportation/Travel Demand Management (TDM): While the project is focused on traffic signal modernization, the overarching aim to facilitate efficient evacuation and access for emergency vehicles indirectly supports TDM goals. By improving the reliability and efficiency of the transportation network, the project contributes to a broader strategy for managing travel demand, especially during crisis events. Harris County Precinct 1 Traffic Signal Intersection Improvement Project embodies a multi-faceted approach to congestion management. By incorporating elements of intelligent transportation systems and roadway and mobility improvements, the project contributes to a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing congestion, improving safety, and promoting sustainable modes of transportation within the context of the region's broader congestion management objectives.

4. Is the proposed project located on a facility identified as a hurricane evacuation route in any regional or local plans?

4a. If no, is the proposed project located on a facility that functions as an alternative to an evacuation route?

Yes

4a-i. If yes, explain.

All proposed project locations, listed below, provide direct access to the evacuation route (North FWY) and/or designated feeder to a hurricane evacuation route (BW8) : Veterans Memorial Drive @ Bammel North Houston Road Bammel North Houston Road @ De Forrest Street & South Trace Drive Veterans Memorial Drive @ Sableridge Drive Black Pool Place Veterans Memorial Drive @ Bammel North Spears Road Houston Road @ West Richey Road Veterans Memorial Drive @ Antoine Drive Bammel North Houston Road @ Champion Forest Drive & Kleinbrook Drive Bammel North Houston Road @ Green Pines Lane Bammel North Houston Road @ West Greens Road Veterans Memorial Drive @ S Camden Parkway Veterans Memorial Drive @ West Greens Road Gears Road @ Reliant Energy Drive Veterans Memorial Drive @ Willow Tree Drive Fairbanks North Houston Road @ Fallbrook Drive Bammel North Houston Road @ Silver Star Drive Fairbanks North Houston Road @ Rodney Ray Blvd & Breen Drive Hardy Tollroad @ Richey Road Rankin Road @ Chisholm Trail Hardy Toll Road @ Rankin Road

Other Investment Category Focused Criteria

1. Was the project scored under Regional Goods Movement Category?

1a. If no, please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project improves regional goods movement. Within the narrative, please include if the proposed project is designated as a critical freight corridor or a local/regional/state truck route.

The proposed project aims to enhance regional goods movement by upgrading traffic signals at Veterans Memorial and supporting the Hardy Toll Road corridor, part of the FHWA Primary Highway Freight System. This initiative is crucial for improving the efficiency and reliability of freight transport in key corridors identified in regional goods movement plans. By modernizing traffic signals, the project facilitates smoother and faster transit for freight carriers, reducing congestion and delays. This is particularly important for corridors within the RTP45 Roadway Segment Categories, as they play a vital role in the regional economy by supporting the movement of goods through strategic freight networks. The upgrades will also contribute to better coordination of freight movement on major routes, enhancing the overall efficiency of goods transportation and supporting economic activities dependent on timely and reliable freight services.

2. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project benefits high growth areas. Within the narrative, please explain if the proposed project improves or provides access to new residential developments, retail stores, other land uses, or if the proposed project alleviates future congestion due to potential economic development activity such as expansion of warehouses or other freight generators.

The proposed project benefits high-growth areas by improving traffic signal infrastructure and directly supporting improved access to residential developments, retail stores, institutions, hospitals, and social services. The project facilitates smoother traffic flow by upgrading traffic signals and improving roadway efficiency. It anticipates future congestion challenges associated with economic development activities, such as expanding warehouses or freight generators. Improved traffic management systems mitigate potential congestion, ensuring that high-growth areas remain attractive for residential and commercial development by maintaining accessibility and reducing travel times. This proactive approach supports sustainable urban growth, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with development and economic activity.

3. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project improves walking and biking conditions. Within the narrative, please explain if the proposed project scope includes construction of a new or improved existing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure on a project facility or in the vicinity of the project.

The proposed project significantly enhances walking and biking conditions by modernizing traffic signals, including installing new pedestrian crossings. These improvements aim to ensure safer and more accessible pathways for non-motorized users. By incorporating these elements, the project supports a safer, more connected environment for pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging active transportation modes. Including such infrastructure directly aligns with goals to promote sustainable and healthy urban mobility, benefiting Harris County Precinct 1 communities by improving accessibility and safety for all road users.

4. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project improves traffic conditions for transit services (local, express, signature, or commuter).

The proposed project improves traffic conditions for transit services by implementing modern signal control technology, which can include transit signal prioritization (TSP). TSP allows signals to adjust timing to favor transit vehicles, reducing delays and improving reliability for local, express, signature, or commuter transit services. This enhancement supports more efficient and punctual transit operations, creating a more attractive public transportation system. Improved signal timing and coordination also facilitate a smoother flow of transit vehicles through intersections, further enhancing service quality for passengers.

5. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project will reduce inoperability for significant periods due to infrastructure damaged by a collision with vehicles such as trucks, ships, and barges.

The proposed project's focus on upgrading traffic signal infrastructure to withstand extreme weather conditions and potential flooding inherently addresses resilience against damage from vehicle collisions, including those involving trucks. By installing more robust and technologically advanced traffic signal poles, signal heads, controllers, and associated equipment, the project aims to reduce the likelihood of significant operational disruptions resulting from such incidents. Enhanced durability and strategic design choices ensure that the traffic signal system remains functional or is more quickly restored to operation after a collision, thus minimizing inoperability periods and maintaining critical traffic flow, especially in emergencies. The proposed project's focus on upgrading traffic signal infrastructure to withstand extreme weather conditions and potential flooding inherently addresses resilience against damage from vehicle collisions, including those involving trucks. By installing more robust and technologically advanced traffic signal poles, signal heads, controllers, and associated equipment, the project aims to reduce the likelihood of significant operational disruptions resulting from such incidents. Enhanced durability and strategic design choices ensure that the traffic signal system remains functional or is more quickly restored to operation after a collision, thus minimizing inoperability periods and maintaining critical traffic flow, especially in emergencies.

6. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project will improve state of good repair and extend the service life of the project facility.

The proposed project enhances the state of good repair. It extends the service life of the project facility by replacing old and potentially malfunctioning traffic signal equipment with modern, more durable components. This ensures that the traffic signals are less susceptible to failures and reduces maintenance needs over time. By using advanced materials and technologies designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, the project effectively increases the longevity of the traffic infrastructure, ensuring it remains functional and reliable for a longer period, thereby reducing future repair and replacement costs.

Planning Factors Criteria

1. What is the existing fatality crash rate at the project location? Regional crash data is available online on the crash data viewer. H-GAC staff will provide assistance in calculating the crash rates upon request.

11.193 existing fatality crash rate

2. What is the existing serious injury crash rate at the project location? Regional crash data is available online on the crash data viewer. H-GAC staff will provide assistance in calculating the crash rates upon request.

87.68 existing injury crash rate

3. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project reduces expected fatality and serious injury crashes. Narrative must include specific improvements (work types) included in the project scope. Crash reduction factors associated with specific work types can be found in the safety benefits calculation template. H-GAC staff can provide assistance in gathering the crash reduction factors upon request.

The proposed project aims to reduce fatalities and serious injuries by modernizing traffic signals, including installing new pedestrian signals and improving existing traffic signals. By enhancing intersection safety and pedestrian crossings, these improvements directly target reduction in intersection-related crashes. According to crash reduction factors, installing or improving traffic signals can significantly lower the incidence of such crashes. Enhanced signal visibility and pedestrian infrastructure, including signals and crossings, protect vulnerable road users and improve overall safety at intersections. Based on the Crash Reduction Factors, below are some specific activities from the scope of work, their corresponding work types, and crash reduction factors: 1. Install Traffic Signal (Work Type: Install Traffic Signal) - Work Code: 107 - Crash Reduction Factor: 35% - This involves the installation of new traffic signals, aiming to reduce intersection-related crashes by improving control and reducing conflict points between vehicles. 2. Improve Traffic Signals (Work Type: Improve Traffic Signals) - Work Code: 108 - Crash Reduction Factor: 24% - This activity focuses on upgrading existing traffic signals to enhance their efficiency and visibility, which can significantly reduce intersection-related crashes. 3. Install Pedestrian Signal (Work Type: Install Pedestrian Signal) - Work Code: 110 - Crash Reduction Factor: 34% - By installing pedestrian signals, the project aims to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists, reducing pedestrian-involved crashes at intersections and crossings. These improvements are part of a comprehensive approach to enhancing road safety, aiming to significantly reduce the likelihood of fatal and serious injury crashes by addressing specific risks associated with intersection and pedestrian crossings. The consolidated crash reduction factor > 50%.

Resiliency

1. Please select the vulnerability to flooding score at the project location based on the Regional Resiliency tool. H-GAC staff can provide assistance with the regional resiliency tool upon request.

High

2. Please select the criticality score at the project location based on the Regional Resiliency tool. H-GAC staff can provide assistance with the regional resiliency tool up on request.

Medium

3. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project reduces vulnerability to flooding. The narrative must include specific improvements such as drainage improvements that are included in the scope.

The proposed project aims to reduce vulnerability to flooding by incorporating specific improvements that enhance the resilience of traffic signal infrastructure against water-related damage. While the project's primary focus is on the modernization of traffic signals to facilitate efficient evacuation and access during crisis events, an essential aspect of ensuring their reliability, especially in Low- and Moderate-Income (LMI) Target Areas, involves addressing flood risks. Specifically, the project includes the following improvements to mitigate flooding impacts: 1. Installation of Elevated Traffic Signal Equipment: By installing traffic signal poles, signal heads, controllers, and associated equipment at elevated positions, the project ensures that critical components remain functional during flood events. This measure prevents water from compromising the electrical systems vital for the operation of traffic signals. 2. Use of Flood-Resistant Materials and Technologies: The project involves selecting materials and technologies known for their resistance to water damage. This includes waterproof enclosures for electrical components and using materials that can withstand prolonged exposure to water without corroding or degrading. 3. Drainage Improvements around Signal Sites: Although not explicitly mentioned in the initial scope, integrating drainage improvements at or near traffic signal sites can significantly enhance the project's effectiveness in reducing flood vulnerability. This could involve clearing existing drainage pathways, installing new drainage systems, or improving surface grading to ensure water is directed away from critical infrastructure. 4. Adherence to Floodplain Regulations: By carefully designing the modernization of each traffic signal site to comply with local floodplain regulations, the project ensures that the installations are positioned and constructed in a manner that minimizes flood risk and adheres to best practices for flood mitigation. These improvements collectively enhance the resilience of traffic signal infrastructure against flooding, ensuring the signals remain operational during adverse weather conditions. This supports the primary goal of facilitating safe and efficient evacuation and emergency access and contributes to the overall resilience of the transportation network in Harris County Precinct 1.

Access/Connectivity

Please enter the household population located within a quarter mile buffer of the project location: 1a. Low-Income

24,180

1b. Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Minorities

41,901

2. Does the proposed project improve or provide new connectivity to a medical facility within a quarter mile buffer of the project location?

3. Does the proposed project improve or provide new connectivity to a school/college/university within a quarter mile buffer of the project location?

Yes

4. Does the proposed project improve or provide new connectivity to a social services facility within a quarter buffer of the project location?

Yes

Environmental Justice

Please enter household population located within quarter mile buffer of the project location. H-GAC staff can assist in gathering the data. 1a. Low-Income

24,180

1b. Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Minorities

41,901

1c. Household Population Under Poverty

9,859

1d. Disabled Persons

3,425

1e. Elderly Persons

1,395

1f. Limited English Proficiency

8,696

2. What is the average Livable Center Need Index within quarter mile buffer of the project location? H-GAC staff can assist in gathering the data.

54.7

3. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project provides benefits to vulnerable populations. Benefits include safety improvements, construction of or improvements to ped/bike facilities, or improvements to transit stops.

The proposed project significantly benefits vulnerable populations in Harris County Precinct 1, particularly focusing on safety improvements, construction of or enhancements to pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and improvements to transit stops. These benefits aim to ensure equitable access to safe, efficient, and reliable transportation options for all community members, including Low- and Moderate-Income (LMI) Target Areas, which often face more significant challenges in mobility and access. Below are ways the proposed project benefits vulnerable populations: 1. Safety Improvements: The project significantly enhances road safety for all users, including vulnerable populations, by upgrading traffic signals and incorporating modern signal control technology. Improved signal timing and coordination reduce the risk of accidents at intersections while installing pedestrian crossings ensures safer pathways for non-motorized traffic. These safety improvements are crucial for reducing pedestrian and cyclist fatalities and serious injuries, particularly in areas where such populations rely on walking and biking as primary modes of transportation. 2. Construction of or Improvements to Ped/Bike Facilities: The project scope explicitly includes the installation of new pedestrian crossings, which directly benefits vulnerable populations by providing safer and more accessible routes. Enhancements to existing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure encourage active transportation, promote healthy lifestyles, and facilitate access to essential services, education, and employment opportunities. By improving the connectivity and safety of ped/bike facilities, the project addresses mobility and accessibility challenges faced by vulnerable groups, fostering more inclusive communities. 3. Improvements to Transit Stops: While the initial project scope focuses on traffic signal modernization, the enhanced infrastructure indirectly benefits transit users by improving the efficiency and reliability of public transportation services. Optimized signal timing can reduce bus delays, improving service quality and timely access to transit stops. Although not explicitly mentioned, incorporating transit signal prioritization or enhancing infrastructure around transit stops could further augment these benefits, making public transit more viable and attractive for vulnerable populations. The proposed project's emphasis on safety, accessibility, and mobility improvements directly supports the well-being of Harris County Precinct 1 vulnerable populations. By addressing these groups' specific needs and challenges, the project creates safer, more connected, and equitable communities where all residents can access sustainable and reliable transportation options.

4. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project avoids or mitigates adverse effects to vulnerable populations. A list of adverse effects was provided in detailed criteria document.

The proposed project is designed to avoid or mitigate adverse effects on vulnerable populations, with a comprehensive approach to addressing potential human health and environmental impacts. By upgrading and modernizing traffic signals in Harris County Precinct 1, the project aims to enhance safety, accessibility, and resilience without imposing negative consequences on the community or environment. The project addresses various aspects of adverse effects as provided in the H-GAC detailed criteria account: 1. Bodily impairment, infirmity, illness, or death: The project directly reduces traffic-related accidents and fatalities by improving traffic signal functionality and pedestrian infrastructure. Enhanced crossings and signal timings decrease the likelihood of pedestrian and vehicle collisions, thus protecting physical well-being. 2. Air, noise, or water pollution; soil contamination: The project's focus on efficient traffic flow reduces vehicle idling and congestion, indirectly contributing to lower air pollution levels. The project minimizes its impact on soil and water quality by adhering to environmental regulations, especially concerning construction practices. 3. Disruption or diminution of artificial or natural resources: The project is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure, minimizing disruption to natural resources and the urban landscape. Efforts to avoid significant alterations to land use ensure the preservation of community assets. 4. Destruction or diminution of aesthetic values: The modernization of traffic signals is conducted with consideration for the aesthetic values of the community. Upgrades are designed to blend with the surrounding environment, maintaining or enhancing visual appeal. 5. Impact upon the cohesion or economic vitality of a community: By improving transportation efficiency and safety, the project supports communities' economic vitality and cohesion. Enhanced mobility facilitates access to jobs, services, and social activities, reinforcing community ties. 6. Impact on public or private facilities and services: The project aims to enhance, rather than disrupt, access to public and private facilities and services. The project ensures alignment with community needs and minimizes service disruptions by maintaining open communication with local authorities and stakeholders. 7. Adverse impacts on employment: The project potentially contributes to local employment opportunities through construction and maintenance activities. By improving infrastructure, it also supports broader economic activities that sustain employment. 8. Displacement of persons, businesses, farms, or non-profit organizations: The scope of work is carefully planned to avoid displacement. The project minimizes the need for extensive land use changes that could lead to displacement by focusing on existing traffic signal sites. 9. Increased traffic congestion, isolation, exclusion, or separation: The project specifically targets the reduction of traffic congestion, thereby mitigating issues of isolation or exclusion. Improved traffic flow and pedestrian access promote inclusivity and connectivity. 10. Denial of, reduction in, significant delay in receipt of benefits of transportation program: By enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the transportation infrastructure, the project ensures that benefits are more equitably distributed, with particular attention to meeting the needs of vulnerable populations. The proposed project is designed to enhance the transportation infrastructure while minimizing adverse effects on vulnerable populations. Through careful planning, stakeholder engagement, and adherence to environmental and safety standards, the project contributes positively to the community's well-being and environmental sustainability.

Impacts on Natural and Cultural Resources

1. Please provide a narrative explaining how the proposed project avoids or mitigates impacts to natural (flood plains, wetlands) and cultural (historic and archeological sites) resources. H-GAC staff can provide assistance in identifying natural and cultural resources located within a quarter mile buffer of the project location.

The County is currently developing a resiliency plan to improve the resilience of its communities and infrastructure. In addition, the County's Vision Zero Action plan has committed to planning efforts (Complete Streets and multimodal thoroughfare planning) which will incorporate roadway safety considerations downstream of flood risk to people and properties, incorporating principles of sustainable urban development, mixed-use development patterns connected by multimodal transportation options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. To avoid or mitigate impacts to natural resources, the proposed project will comply with all federal, state, and local wetlands and flood plains regulations. Harris County will implement best management practices to minimize potential impacts on these resources. In addition, the project will incorporate sustainable design practices such as green infrastructure and low-impact development to mitigate the project's impact on natural resources. Harris County will coordinate the assessment to address potential impacts to cultural resources, and any necessary mitigation measures will be identified and implemented as part of the project design and construction process. The County will also follow all applicable federal and state regulations related to the protection of cultural resources. By adhering to these guidelines, Harris County aims to deliver a project that will benefit the community significantly while avoiding or mitigating potential adverse effects on natural and cultural resources.

2. Please provide Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) reductions provided by the project. H-GAC staff can provide assistance in calculating NOx and VOC reductions.
(Optional)

The NOx emission reduction is 1.33 and the VOC emission reduction is 6.08

Innovation

1. Does the project propose to implement new infrastructure technologies to enhance accessibility, mobility, multimodalism, resiliency, reliability, or traffic operations?

Yes

1a. If yes, please explain.

The proposed project aims to implement new infrastructure technologies to enhance accessibility, mobility, multimodalism, resiliency, reliability, and traffic operations. The project scope is slated to incorporate Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to manage traffic flow and improve safety for all users, including motorists, transit users, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The project will also utilize the latest technologies for transit signal priority and real-time traveler information systems to enhance transit service reliability and make it more attractive to potential riders. Additionally, the project will feature complete streets design elements to enhance accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities, and promote walking and biking as viable transportation options. The project will also utilize green infrastructure solutions to increase resiliency and promote sustainable development. Through these measures, the proposed project seeks to improve transportation accessibility, mobility, and resiliency while enhancing traffic operations and reliability.

2. Does the project propose to implement new autonomous/connected vehicle technology?

Yes

2a. If yes, please explain.

The proposed traffic signals and traffic controllers will be equipped with technologies and standards that will be compatible with autonomous and connected vehicles.