Central Florida's transportation system is a vast network of roads, rails, trails, transit, runways, and related features. But the journey from point A to point B involves much more than the system itself. Population, economic conditions, and technology are just a few factors that impact transportation.

Each year, MetroPlan Orlando collects data from federal, state, and local sources to evaluate trends impacting the region's transportation system. Results are presented in Tracking the Trends: A Transportation System Indicator Report for the Orlando Metropolitan Area.

The latest report, which analyzes data through the year 2010, includes several underlying themes:

Economic Impacts

Trends suggest the recent economic decline continues to impact the region’s transportation system. Unemployment directly impacted fuel consumption as fewer Central Floridians commuted to work and participated in costly leisure activities like boating and traveling. The rise and fluctuation of fuel costs also contributed to the reduction in fuel use.

Transportation Funding 

Funding for all transportation capital projects declined in the 2009/10 fiscal year. The combination of economic conditions and advances in fuel efficiency caused a decrease in transportation funding from fuel tax revenues. Additionally, state and local rental car surcharge revenues declined between 2005 and 2010. The number of transactions on toll facilities also decreased in recent years.

Safety

Advances in technology and rapid on-scene assistance contributed to improved safety on the region’s transportation system. The Road Rangers program continues to minimize traffic congestion caused by minor crashes and vehicle breakdowns by assisting crash victims and stranded commuters. Red light cameras are also used in some areas to enhance safety. This trend is expected to grow in the future, aided by statewide legislation involving the use of red light cameras.

Tracking the Trends Archive

Visit our Tracking the Trends archive to view reports from previous years.