Layered Networks
We help clients build well-connected multimodal networks.
Endorsed by the Transportation Research Board and codified by the Institute of Transportation Engineers, this recommended practice aims to help balance land use contexts and the diverse and competing needs of pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, transit, and freight within constrained rights-of-way. By identifying, prioritizing, and overlaying these modal layers, practitioners can create comprehensive systems that serve everyone’s needs, reduce potential conflicts, and enhance safety and efficiency.



Three Key Principles for Designing Layered Networks
Identify the Primary Modes
Steadfast complete streets design requires first identifying the primary use of a street.
Use a Network Approach
Distinguishing streets with the same primary use helps create continuous, connected routes for each mode of travel. By understanding how each segment fits into the network, planners can prioritize modes and design streets to match those priorities.
Performance Measures Count
Performance measures should sync with the street’s primary use. If it’s a transit-priority street, transit travel time, reliability, and quality of amenities are the most important measures of success.
Three Key Principles for Designing Layered Networks
Identify the Primary Modes
Steadfast complete streets design requires first identifying the primary use of a street.
Using a Network Approach
Distinguishing streets with the same primary use helps create continuous, connected routes for each mode of travel. By understanding how each segment fits into the network, planners can prioritize modes and design streets to match those priorities.
Performance Measures Count
Performance measures should sync with the street’s primary use. If it’s a transit-priority street, transit travel time, reliability, and quality of amenities are the most important measures of success.
Tie-Breaking Multiple Modal Priorities
As shown in the graphic, prioritization depends on the land use context. For example, walking is prioritized in areas with high pedestrian activity, while driving may take priority in suburban settings. On a main street, a road shared by cars and pedestrians would favor walkers. In a suburban corridor, it would prioritize drivers.
Be sure to explore our SEMCOG/MDOT Multimodal Tool, a time-saving and real-time way to evaluate your layered networks. This first-of-its-kind web application streamlines the design and testing of complete streets and multimodal layouts balancing the various travel modes. By building out street cross-sections, users can instantly evaluate how well the design serves each of the travel modes and its impact on performance measures. For agencies, it offers a strong technical basis to justify how streets are being designed or reconfigured assuring that all modes are receiving priority treatment on their appropriate networks.
Connect with us.
Team up with our layered network experts to create custom, inclusive plans and designs for your community.
Kendra Rowley
PE
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Natalie Chyba
Engineer/Planner
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