How Long Does a Traffic Impact Analysis Take in Texas?
Nothing can disrupt a development schedule faster than discovering that a Traffic Impact Analysis is required after entitlement has already begun.
Most developers account for the cost of a traffic study, but many underestimate how much time the process can add to a project. Understanding the typical timeline can help you avoid delays and keep your development moving forward.
What Actually Happens During a Traffic Impact Analysis?
A TIA involves several steps before a final report is approved. While every jurisdiction has different requirements, most studies include:
- 1Scoping — The process begins by determining the level of study required and confirming expectations with the reviewing agency.
- 2Traffic Counts — Existing traffic conditions are documented through field counts and available traffic data. Depending on timing and weather conditions, collecting this information can add days or weeks to the schedule.
- 3Traffic Modeling — Engineers analyze projected traffic generated by the development and evaluate how nearby intersections and roadways will perform.
- 4Draft Report Preparation — Findings are compiled into a formal report that documents assumptions, methodology, and recommendations.
- 5Agency Review — Cities, counties, or TxDOT review the study and provide comments or requested revisions.
- 6Revisions and Final Approval — The engineering team addresses comments and submits final documentation for approval.
Typical TIA Timelines in Texas
The overall timeline depends on the complexity of the project and the agencies involved:
- Traffic Memo — 1 to 2 weeks
- Small TIA — 2 to 4 weeks
- Standard TIA — 4 to 8 weeks
- TxDOT Coordination Required — 6 to 12+ weeks
Projects involving state highways or multiple jurisdictions often require additional review time.
Biggest Causes of Delay
Several factors can extend the duration of a traffic study:
- Incomplete site plans
- Waiting for traffic counts
- Scope changes during design
- City review comments
- TxDOT coordination requirements
Addressing these issues early can significantly reduce schedule impacts.
The Most Common Developer Mistake
One of the biggest mistakes developers make is waiting until entitlement review has already started before beginning the traffic study.
By that point, a required TIA can quickly become the critical path item that delays the entire project.
How to Speed Up the Process
Developers can shorten timelines by taking a few proactive steps:
- Schedule an early scoping meeting
- Confirm city requirements before submitting plans
- Provide complete site plans to the traffic engineer
- Identify access points as early as possible
Starting the process early gives agencies more time to review the study while other project tasks continue in parallel.
Why Some TIAs Take Months
Some projects naturally require additional time. Common reasons include:
- Multiple jurisdictions involved in the review
- Access to state highways requiring TxDOT coordination
- Discussions regarding off-site improvements
- Multiple rounds of agency comments and revisions
These situations are common on larger commercial and mixed-use developments.
Plan Ahead and Avoid Delays
Understanding the timeline for a Traffic Impact Analysis can help developers avoid surprises and keep entitlement schedules on track.
Need a realistic timeline for your project? Atlas can review your site and provide an estimated study schedule before entitlement begins.
- Email: rguerra@atlasengineers.org
- Phone: (210) 416-1354
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