ABOUT PLANNED SPECIAL EVENTS

Planned special events (PSEs) refer to public activities with scheduled times, locations, and durations that can significantly affect transportation system operations. These events typically lead to increased travel demand and may also reduce the capacity of transportation networks. PSEs can significantly impact travel safety, mobility, and travel time reliability across all surface transportation modes and roadway facilities.

PSE examples include sporting events, concerts, festivals, and conventions occurring at permanent multiuse venues (e.g., arenas, stadiums, racetracks, fairgrounds, amphitheaters, convention centers). They also include less frequent public events such as parades, firework displays, bicycle races, sporting games, motorcycle rallies, seasonal festivals, and milestone celebrations at temporary venues.

Managing travel for planned special events involves advanced operations planning, stakeholder coordination and partnerships, developing multiagency transportation management plans, making the public and event patrons aware of potential travel impacts, and coordinating agency services and resource sharing. Through these efforts, agencies can improve event safety and travel efficiency, while mitigating disruption to the surrounding area.

BENEFITS FROM SUCCESSFUL PLANNED SPECIAL EVENTS

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) PSE Program provides resources and technical support to help practitioners advance their capability maturity for PSE management. Organizations that advance their capability maturity for PSEs benefit in the following ways:

• Reduced Traffic Congestion: Effective planning helps minimize traffic jams, ensuring a smoother flow of vehicles
• Improved Mobility: It enhances the overall movement of people and goods, making it easier for attendees to reach the event
• Enhanced Safety: Proper management reduces the risk of accidents and ensures the safety of all travelers
• Partnerships and Trust: It fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, building trust and improving resource utilization
• Interagency Coordination: Promotes better coordination between different agencies, leading to more efficient use of resources
• Economic and Tourism Benefits: Well-managed events may boost local economies and attract tourists

These benefits highlight the importance of proactive planning and coordination for the success of PSEs.