A transport planner is a person that studies every aspect of the transportation infrastructure within a specific area, and applies their knowledge to improve aspects that need to be changed. They predict the patterns of common traveling and they evaluate the local environmental and social effects on local transportation issues. The main job responsibilities typically follow set government guidelines by working with the public in three different aspects, in an attempt to increase the productivity and usefulness of the transportation systems. They work with the public to decrease current car usage by promoting walking, riding a bike, or using any of the local transportation options that are available.
Research and development is a key job requirement for a transport planner. They evaluate any local studies that have been done, consider every problem that currently exists, and then they combine all of the information into one report. These reports are used to analyze the current transportation issues that may exist, allowing them to find a solution to the problems that will follow the set guidelines and not present too much of a problem for travelers through the area in question. Before decisions are made concerning any changes, though, a computer simulation is made with the suggested improvements, allowing the planner to see what will truly happen, and how much the cost for the project will actually be.
When local authorities, or highway construction crews, or even companies draw up plans for any type of development, the transport planner will review the plans and the documents provided. They will then decide how much the transportation systems would be affected by the changes, and then will state their professional opinions to the committee or company officers that are discussing the project. The knowledge of the planner allows an unbiased evaluation to be performed, as well as an accurate forecast of what will happen in the future if the project should go through. Whenever any kind of large development plan is being considered, the planner will be brought in to evaluate all options and consequences.
The final job task that is required from a transport planner is that of education. They are required to attend local meetings to give expert opinions and advice to all local residents. Even though a specific community may want a change to happen, the planner can supply outside information to the repercussions that the change would have on the entire area, and not just within the neighborhood in question. The Transport Planner is an expert within the transportation industry and is relied upon by governments, businesses, and private individuals to solve common problems that occur within the system.