The impact of multi-modal transportation on the evacuation efficiency of building complexes

Abstract

Efficient planning for the evacuation of building complexes requires an understanding of the complex interrelationships between multiple modes of transportation. This paper explores a model that captures the interactions between vehicles and pedestrians, as well as behavior unique to parking lots. This model was implemented in simulation of the evacuation of the hourly parking lot at Dulles International Airport. The results revealed the significant impact that these interrelations had on both the efficiency and the dynamics of the evacuation. The impact on the variances in delay experienced by individuals has important implications for both the safety of the evacuation and evacuation management.