Reggio Emilia tram line: update of the transport study
Objective of the assignment
The Municipality of Reggio Emilia has requested a complete update of the transport study dedicated to the future Reggio Emilia–Mediopadana High-Speed Railway Station tram line. The assignment is part of MIT’s Call for Tenders 3 TRM and continues the analyses already begun in 2021, integrating new infrastructure scenarios and using the most recent demand data, updated to 2023. The main objective is to provide a solid knowledge base to support decision-making and define the technical, transport and economic sustainability of the project.
Setting up the simulation model
The team developed an advanced multimodal model for the tram line PFTE, integrating current and forecast demand samples. In addition, ISTAT data, CATI/CAWI interviews, telephone Big Data and Floating Car Data were used. This integration improves the quality of the dataset, reduces uncertainties and builds a more robust picture of traffic and mobility dynamics. The model also allows for the comparison of alternative supply scenarios and the evaluation of the urban network’s response to changes introduced by the new tram service.
Network and demand construction
The model structure has been organised into over 340 traffic zones, 75 public transport lines, 600 routes and approximately 3,000 daily journeys. The network is derived from OpenStreetMap and extends over 13,000 km. Furthermore, the Origin/Destination matrices – constructed using more than 100 million records – reconstruct movements during the main daily time slots. This allows us to provide an up-to-date picture of demand and modal distribution.
Assessment of project scenarios
The model simulates the interaction between the new tram line, the provincial transport system and the local area, estimating the impact on journey times, congestion, service levels and expected passenger numbers at future stops. Scenarios are also projected for 2028, including potential changes in modal split, reductions in private traffic and benefits in terms of sustainability.
Results and usefulness for planning
The study provides an up-to-date and robust technical framework, useful both for applying for ministerial funding and for supporting urban planning in Reggio Emilia. The analyses enable the identification of sustainable, integrated and scalable solutions, improving the overall quality of the mobility system and providing an objective basis for future strategic decisions.
