Trip generation rates for retirement homes and villages in South Africa

Abstract

The development of land serves to fulfil certain needs, resulting in traffic generation. An assessment of the traffic which is expected to be generated by a newly proposed development is required to mitigate the effect of this new traffic and improve the operational condition of road network. Development generated trips are most commonly estimated by using trip generation rates. These trip generation rates vary with development specific land-use characteristics. This paper considers the appropriate estimation of land use specific trip generation rates for South African retirement facilities. The study aims to determine whether a unique set of trip generation indicators are needed for retirement facilities, or whether existing residential trip generation rates can be used. Traffic observations were conducted at 10 retirement facilities in South Africa. Trip generation at retirement facilities was found to vary significantly from other residential land uses. The majority of trips generated by residential areas leave the area during the morning peak hour, returning in during the afternoon peak hour, however, since retired people are not leaving their residence to attend work, a unique patter of trips is created, requiring a unique set of trip generation rates. Trips generated at various retirement facilities also showed significant variation. This led to the partition of retirement facilities into two categories, namely retirement homes and retirement villages. Retirement homes are classified as residential facilities with assisted living services and attached housing units. Retirement villages have primarily detached housing units but may incorporate assisted living facilities. Trip generation rates were calculated for vehicles and pedestrians during all peak periods at retirement homes and villages.