Transportation Demand Management

Transportation Demand Management (TDM) refers to an approach to transportation that focuses on alleviating traffic problems through the reduction of vehicles on the road, particularly single-occupancy vehicles. There are a variety of TDM tools available that can be used by employers, developers, and municipalities, however TDM programs often works most effectively if they are coordinated by one agency that works cooperatively with communities, employers, and developers at a municipal or intermunicipal scale.

One way to reduce vehicle demand on roadways is by improving the public transit system and street networks for cyclists and pedestrians. A municipality can show its commitment to reducing auto traffic by adopting a trip reduction or transportation demand management ordinance. The ordinance can outline and formalize standards that aim to minimize the amount of parking demand and reduce single-occupant vehicle trips by, for example, requiring bicycle parking facilities for parking projects of over 30 spaces.

Communities can encourage developers to incorporate multiple transportation options into their plans by negotiating transit-friendly agreements with developers to support the local transit system and provide adequate facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. For example, communities may institute incentive programs for developers, such as density bonuses, lower minimum parking requirements, and expedited permitting for development projects, in return for enhanced facilities for pedestrians, cyclists and transit riders.

Employers can offer employees a variety of financial and convenience incentives to encourage them to carpool, take transit, bicycle or walk to work.