01338294

Component

Adopting an agent-based approach, this paper explores and models the topological evolution of the Minneapolis Skyway System from a microscopic perspective. Under a decentralized decision-making mechanism, skyway segments are built by self-interested building owners located in different blocks. The authors measure the accessibility for the blocks in downtown Minneapolis from 1962 to 2002 using the size of office space in each block as an indicator for business opportunities. By building skyway segments, building owners desire to increase their buildings' value of accessibility, and thus potential business revenue. The skyway network in equilibrium generated from the agent model displays similarity to the actual skyway system. The network topology is evaluated by multiple centrality measures (e.g., degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality). Sensitivity tests on such parameters as distance decay parameter and construction cost per unit length of segment are performed. The results disclose that the accessibility-based agent model can provide unique insights for the dynamics of the growth of skyway networks.

01329018

11-0424

English

29p

2011

Transportation Research Board 90th Annual Meeting

DVD

Figures (9) ; References; Tables (2)

Accessibility; Decision making; Office buildings; Revenues; Sensitivity analysis; Topology

Minneapolis Skyway

Agent based models; Centrality; Network equilibrium model

Minneapolis (Minnesota)

Design; Economics; Planning and Forecasting; I20: Design and Planning of Transport Infrastructure

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2011 Paper #11-0424

TRIS, TRB

Feb 17 2011 5:26PM