Optimizing Mobility Through Data-Driven Strategies

This research area focuses on analyzing and improving transportation systems to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. We study people and vehicle movement patterns to guide infrastructure investments, public transit planning, and smart traffic management.

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Key Research Areas

1. Transportation System Analysis & Evaluation

• Demand forecasting using big data and AI

• Cost-benefit analysis of transport projects (BRT, metro, bike lanes)

• Multi-modal network optimization (integration of buses, rail, rideshare)

2. Transport Network Operations

• Congestion modeling for urban corridors

• Public transit performance (reliability, frequency, crowding)

• Freight logistics optimization

3. Urban Planning & Transport Integration

• Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) strategies

• 15-minute city accessibility modeling

• Pedestrian/cyclist infrastructure design

4. Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)

• AI traffic signal control for reduced delays

• Connected/autonomous vehicle integration studies

• Real-time data dashboards for transport agencies

5. Traffic Safety & Driving Simulation

• Crash prediction models using machine learning

• Virtual reality driving simulators for safety testing

• Road design audits for vulnerable users

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Active Research Projects

Project	Approach	Impact
Dynamic Traffic Management	Reinforcement learning for adaptive signals	20-30% congestion reduction
Equitable Transit Planning	Accessibility gaps analysis	Improved low-income mobility
VR Driver Behavior Studies	Simulator testing of road designs	Safer highway geometries
Drone-Based Traffic Monitoring	UAV video analytics for conflict detection	Proactive safety management

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Methodologies & Tools

• Simulation: VISSIM, AIMSUN, TransCAD

• Data Science: Python, R, SQL for travel pattern analysis

• Field Studies: GPS tracking, Bluetooth/WiFi sensors

• Visualization: GIS mapping, Power BI dashboards

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Policy & Industry Applications

• SÃO PAULO METRO: Ridership forecasting for new lines

• BRT CORRIDORS: Optimal station spacing analysis

• HIGHWAY SAFETY: Blackspot identification using AI

Contributes to UN SDGs 11 (Sustainable Cities) and 3 (Health/Well-being).

Partners: CET-SP, EMTU, WRI, IBM Research