Downtown Stadium Traffic Evaluation
This report documents the traffic analysis and roadway planning performed in support of the proposed downtown stadium on Lots C and E.  The site selection process report outlines the traffic evaluations performed in support of the determination of the preferred site.

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This report documents the traffic analysis and roadway planning performed in support of the proposed downtown stadium on Lots C and E.  The site selection process report outlines the traffic evaluations performed in support of the determination of the preferred site.

For reference, the traffic information on the site selection is outlined in this report. For an event, parking is a key variable of traffic flow. The parking supply study is also summarized.

This study should not be construed as a typical traffic impact study for a proposed mixed use
development. Although the goal is similar, that being the determination of necessary
improvements to safely and efficiently handle traffic, the level of traffic analysis performed for this study was much more extensive.

Rather than a study of the capacity of several intersections based upon additional traffic from a proposed development, this study focuses on major event traffic service. Industry traffic flow standards for typical peak hour traffic flow do not apply in an event situation. There is not a precise threshold of level of service in which a conclusion of “works” or “doesn’t work” can be determined.

State of the art traffic simulation software was used to perform the analysis. This analysis tool allows traffic to be evaluated in atypical situations such as a stadium or arena venue. Various measures of effectiveness can be determined such that comparisons can be made between various traffic levels, roadway or parking configurations.

The ultimate question to answer through this study was: Can adequate traffic service be provided if a stadium is constructed on Lots C and E of the Qwest Center complex? This question was answered through an assessment of the following:

  • Do the street changes necessary to support a new stadium adversely affect existing nonevent period traffic flow?
  • Do these street changes affect future development plans in the area as outlined in the North Downtown Redevelopment Plan?
  • Do these street changes adversely affect the traffic flow associated with major Qwest Center events?
  • Is the street system and proposed changes adequate to support the traffic levels expected during a major stadium event?
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