What does VMT stand for in relation to transportation?

VMT stands for Vehicle Miles Traveled, which is a key metric in transportation planning and analysis. It quantifies the total number of miles driven by all vehicles within a specific area over a designated timeframe. VMT is vital for assessing traffic patterns, understanding transportation demand, and evaluating the environmental impacts of vehicular travel, such as greenhouse gas emissions.

Planners and policymakers use VMT data to forecast infrastructure needs, design transportation systems, and set regulations or policies aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality. Monitoring VMT can also help determine the effectiveness of transportation programs and investments, making it a crucial concept in the fields of transportation engineering and urban planning.