GTS provided mobility support services for a large-scale project to revitalize two locations in the City of Khobar: the historic City Center – one of Saudi Arabia’s first planned cities – and Southern Corniche, a waterfront linear park on the edge of the Arabian Gulf. Within the context of placemaking and economic development, GTS devised a range of mobility strategies to serve the project goals, from expanded pedestrian infrastructure to enhanced streetscapes and parking improvements. 

In order to quantify the benefits that can be gained from adding new pedestrian connectors, we developed a GIS-based Route Directness Index (RDI). This tool evaluates the efficiency of the pedestrian network by measuring the ratio of network trip length to direct distance for a variety of destinations. In combination with site visits where we traversed the area on foot and by vehicle, this allowed us to refine our recommendations for pedestrian infrastructure improvements.

To evaluate the impact of proposed developments, GTS also carried out a Traffic Impact Study (TIS) for each part of the study area. The TIS included an overview of existing conditions, from the road network layout to traffic safety to land use and existing traffic volumes; analysis of the proposed development and intended land uses; with-project and without-project trip generation, distribution, and assignment; future traffic forecasts; level of service; and transit and pedestrian assessments. Each TIS recommended a range of mitigation measures to address the impact of the proposed developments on the surrounding transportation system. 

At GTS, we understand that the way people move in and through a place is just as important as the qualities of that place itself. Mobility – using the oldest and newest technologies, from walking to autonomous vehicles – will be an essential aspect of placemaking as Old Khobar begins its journey toward revitalization.