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 Engineering

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-30-2026

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 one alternative location. The objective is to evaluate pedestrian flow and travel times to the two sites. Using VISSIM, micro-simulations were done to analyze walking routes and travel times for students accessing both locations from the campus student union, dorms and commuter parking lots. Results indicate that the university’s proposed site would increase average pedestrian travel times and potentially impact adjacent campus buildings with added cut-through traffic. In contrast, relocating the nursing building to the alternative site would reduce walking distances 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.

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