The objective of this project was to develop a standardized methodology(s) for collecting external survey data on high volume facilities that can be utilized in TxDOT's travel survey program. The research assesses the importance of collecting data on high volume facilities in Texas, assesses the state of the practice and technologies for conducting these surveys, and evaluates techniques and methods currently being used. The project also researches legal and privacy issues related to the use of video in high volume surveys and establishes volume criteria for when external surveys should be conducted using a high volume method.

A specific objective of this scan of recent travel surveys is to facilitate the exchange of information among agencies and individuals having an interest in the design and conduct of household and other types of travel surveys. The information contained in this report complements the companion "Travel Survey Manual", published as part of the Travel Model Improvement Program (TMIP). The "Travel Survey Manual" is a reference document describing accepted practices and recent advancements for the most common types of travel surveys. Four purposes guided the development of this scan: to determine the general state-of-the-practice of travel surveys in this country; to identify the types of surveys being conducted, and the frequency of data collection; to compare United States survey practices to travel survey procedures being used in other countries; and, to assess the degree to which emerging state-of-the-art survey techniques are being introduced into practice.