Hackathon #1: Towards resilient urban transport systems

22 July 2024

Taking place in Cambridge (UK), the event brought together 14 researchers, research associates, and PhD students specialising in transport modelling, software development, freight, travel behaviour, and health.

The hackathon kicked off with an inspiring presentation led by Alistair Ford, who outlined the general and specific objectives of the event. The participants then engaged in a dynamic brainstorming session to address the research objectives, exploring various approaches to tackle the complex challenges at hand.

The primary focus of the hackathon was to develop solutions for major urban flooding risks resulting from climate change and unplanned urbanisation. With increasing flood frequency and intensity posing a severe threat to urban infrastructure and daily life, the need for adaptable and resilient urban and transport systems is more critical than ever.

The team’s aims were to develop an integrated agent-based modelling (ABM) framework that spans from climate variables, such as extreme rainfall, through hydrodynamic flood modelling, to impact assessment on transport systems. The goal was to produce quantifiable metrics to identify key infrastructure assets at risk and exposed population segments, while understanding underlying behavioural changes. The modelling framework demonstrates its applicability through two case studies on Greater Manchester and Newcastle.

On the final day, participants presented their findings to the wider DARe Hub group. The outcomes included a well-defined conceptual framework and a simple case study focussing on the disruption of a strategic transport asset in Newcastle, UK. This case study highlighted the resulting impacts, providing valuable insights into the resilience of transport systems. For example, prior knowledge of urban flooding enables travellers to adjust their daily activity-travel plans (e.g., detours, trip cancellations), highlighting the need for efficient travel demand management strategies under disrupted networks, given its various implications for traffic redistribution and congestion. Additionally, from a road network perspective, ABM can help decision-makers ensure critical transport assets can handle increased traffic.

The hackathon was not all work; participants enjoyed a formal dinner at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, encouraging friendship and networking. A social event with punting around the famous Cambridge colleges added a nice touch to the week, letting participants relax and connect over shared experiences.

Many thanks to the organisers from the University of Cambridge, Anglia Ruskin University, and all participants for their hard work and collaboration. The insights gained and the frameworks developed during this hackathon mark a significant step towards building resilient urban transport systems for the future.