What is the significance of traffic volume forecasting?

Traffic volume forecasting plays a crucial role in the planning and development of transportation systems. By anticipating future traffic demands based on various factors such as population growth, economic trends, and land use changes, transportation planners can make informed decisions about infrastructure investments, road expansions, and public transit enhancements. Accurate forecasting allows for effective resource allocation, ensuring that transportation systems can accommodate expected increases in traffic while maintaining safety and efficiency.

This forward-looking approach helps in developing a sustainable transportation network that can adapt to changing demands over time, ultimately improving mobility and access for the community. The other options, while related to transportation, focus on different aspects that do not directly pertain to the primary function of forecasting traffic volumes for system planning.