Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)

VMT refers to the total number of miles driven on roadways in a defined area during a defined period. Regional VMT is influenced by a complex set of interconnected factors. Higher unemployment, higher fuel prices, increased congestion, telework programs, employer carpool programs, and concentration of development in centers are all linked to VMT reduction. Increasing access to transit services and access to bicycle and pedestrian facilities can also reduce VMT. On the other hand, population growth, higher household income, increased fuel economy and greater roadway capacity can all be linked to increasing VMT.  

VMT in the Tahoe Region is  a function of a complex interplay of a variety of factors including population (both inside and outside the Region), visitation rates, gas prices, employment rates, local housing costs, demand and access for recreational opportunities in the Region, and access to alternative forms of transportation. 

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The Council is working to support the TRPA threshold update process and to inform the regional transportation program.

 
The VMT assessment work provides a better understanding of the factors that have influenced VMT and traffic volume changes in the past, and those that are expected to drive traffic patterns in the future.

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Contact for more information: Robert Larsen (robert.larsen@resources.ca.gov)​