Aerial Surveys

Using Aerial Photography to Measure Congestion Trends
To understand congestion in the Baltimore region and to decide how to use transportation funds, Baltimore Metropolitan Council staff use a variety of technical tools. One useful tool is aerial surveys of roadways.

What are aerial surveys?
An aerial survey is basically a way to collect data using digital cameras mounted in airplanes or satellites. This gives us a "bird's-eye" view of the earth and the information collected can be used to make maps or charts.

How does BMC use this information?
Every three years BMC staff uses extensive aerial surveys to monitor traffic quality on the freeway system in the metro area. The surveys allow us to measure traffic congestion over time. It also enables us to highlight trends and identify possible solutions to relieve congestion.

In 1999, the first survey of the freeway system was conducted during peak morning and evening periods of commuter travel. Surveys were also conducted in 2002, 2005 and 2008.

By repeating the survey program on a three-year cycle, long-term trends can be monitored, while the effects of changes on the system can be evaluated.

2008 Survey

The most recent aerial survey and analysis was conducted in the spring of 2008. BMC partnered with the State Highway Administration and the Maryland Transportation Authority to contract with Skycomp, Inc. to conduct a series of aerial photo-surveys of highway traffic conditions in the planning area.

Using digital cameras mounted in airplanes, a photographic record of traffic conditions was captured on major roads in the Baltimore region. Approximately 530 miles of highways were surveyed during the peak morning and evening periods of commuter travel.

As in the past, the results of the 2008 survey will prove useful to planners. This information provides measurable proof of problem areas, which is useful when decision-makers are allocating transportation funds to improve a corridor or network.

The ongoing program continues to provide planners with feedback on the performance of past transportation investments and provides insight for future decisions.

Explore the results of the 2008 aerial survey!



For more information:
Victor Henry vhenry@baltometro.org at 410-732-0500 x1034



Links within this web site:

Explore a presentation of the maps and aerial photography.

Traffic Quality in the Baltimore Region reports based on 1999, 2002 and 2005 surveys are also available.


Links to other web sites:

Last Updated on Wednesday, 17 March 2010 08:36