Planning for a total transportation system to serve the coastal zone of Texas

Abstract

This dissertation presents the results of an initial planning study, at the macroscopic level, for a total transportation system to serve the Coastal Zone of Texas. All modes of transportation used in the movement of persons and goods, both urban and intercity, are considered. The primary objectives of this study are; (1) to identify broad alternatives for future development and transportation systems; (2) to evaluate the probable consequences of each major alternative; (3) to identify critical relationships between urban form, land use, and transportation systems; (4) to outline general guidelines that can be used to insure compatible developments in the future; and (5) to identify specific actions that the state can take to help insure an effective future transportation system which will have minimum impact upon the environment. A brief summary of the cost, capacity and service characteristics of various modes of urban and intercity transportation is presented. Critical relationships between land-use and urban transportation systems are defines. Relative environmental impacts of transportation modes are evaluated, and pollution problems associated with the automobile are discussed. An evaluation of the existing transportation system serving the Coastal Zone of Texas is made which includes an inventory of existing facilities, calculations of corridor capacity and traffic volumes, and an identification of major problems. The two most pressing problems identified, both of which are associated with water transportation, concern the water depth available at Texas ports and the severe congestion on the Louisiana portion of the inland waterway system. ...