Pedestrian Traffic Analysis for Building Site Selection: A Valparaiso University Case Study
Level of Education of Students Involved
Undergraduate
Faculty Sponsor
Jay Grossman
College
College of Engineering (COE)
Discipline(s)
Civil
ORCID Identifier(s)
0000-0002-6090-9174
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Symposium Date
Spring 4-24-2025
Abstract
Campus infrastructure plays an important role in student mobility, safety and overall quality of life. This study compares pedestrian travel times to Valparaiso University’s proposed nursing building site compared to two alternative locations. The objective is to evaluate pedestrian flow and travel times to the three sites. Using VISSIM, micro-simulations were done to analyze walking routes and travel times for students accessing all three locations from the campus student union, dorms and commuter parking lots. Results indicate that the university’s proposed site would increase pedestrian travel times and expose walking students to conflicting vehicle traffic and potentially impact adjacent campus buildings with added cut-through traffic. In contrast, relocating the nursing building at one of the alternative site would reduce walking distances, improve student safety by minimizing street crossings, and enhance pedestrian flow across campus. These findings suggest that careful site selection can significantly impact student convenience and campus walkability, contributing to a more efficient and accessible university environment.
Recommended Citation
Durand, Andre and Grossman, Jay, "Pedestrian Traffic Analysis for Building Site Selection: A Valparaiso University Case Study" (2025). Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 1476.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/cus/1476
