UNSW Canberra City Campus – Traffic Impact Assessment & Aimsun Modelling

Client

Architect

Client University New South Whales (UNSW)Architect MGS / Hassell

Overview

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra City Campus at 37 Constitution Avenue, Reid, represents a major transformation of the site from the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) into a new university campus. As part of the Master Plan development, Quantum Traffic was engaged to assess the traffic and transport impacts, ensuring a seamless integration of the new campus into the existing urban environment.

Using Aimsun modelling, Quantum Traffic provided a detailed analysis of future traffic conditions, building on Canberra’s existing city model to assess the impacts of the campus redevelopment on the surrounding road network.

Services

To support the successful planning and development of the UNSW Canberra City Campus, Quantum Traffic delivered:

Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) – Evaluating the changes in traffic demand, access arrangements, and road network performance due to the campus redevelopment.
Aimsun Traffic Modelling – Enhancing the existing city-wide model to simulate the impact of new travel patterns, assess congestion points, and test mitigation strategies.
Parking & Access Strategy Review – Assessing on-site and surrounding parking supply, demand, and access arrangements to support staff, students, and visitors.
Intersection & Road Network Performance Analysis – Evaluating the impact on key intersections and identifying necessary traffic management measures and infrastructure upgrades.

Outcomes/Benefits

Comprehensive traffic analysis, ensuring a well-planned and future-ready campus.
Optimised road network performance, minimizing congestion and ensuring efficient campus access.
Data-driven infrastructure recommendations, supporting long-term urban and transport planning.
Seamless integration with the Canberra transport network, enhancing connectivity for students, staff, and the community.

Challenges/Solutions

A key challenge in the project was the campus’ location along a major corridor, which required careful planning to maintain network efficiency.

Advanced Aimsun Modelling for Future Traffic Scenarios – Quantum Traffic refined and built upon Canberra’s existing city model to provide a highly detailed traffic assessment, accurately predicting network impacts.
Strategic Intersection & Access Planning – Identified potential congestion points and proposed signal adjustments, intersection upgrades, and access improvements to maintain efficient operations.
Integration with Public & Active Transport Networks – Recommended enhancements to walking, cycling, and public transport access, promoting sustainable travel choices.