A Decision Support System to design multimodal networks for urban mobility

Abstract

Designing mobility policies and solutions in modern congested cities is a considerable challenge, as we have to respond simultaneously to the needs of multiple actors and activities. Multimodal networks have a great potential to provide higher levels of service, and to improve system efficiency and sustainability. A smart integration of modes, along with well-designed interfaces and multi-platform information systems, can address a diverse and dynamic demand from varied types of travelers (residents, visitors) and trip purposes (loading/unloading, services access). In cargo transport, vehicle dimensions, pollutant emissions or time/zone windows have also to be taken into account. To help the design of these nets, and to promote the involvement of different stakeholders (citizens, authorities, business owners, transport operators, service providers), we have created a conceptual framework based on multicriteria models and service design approaches, and a Decision Support System to implement this framework.