Final answer:
A traffic impact analysis/assessment typically evaluates the direct effects of a new development on the transportation network, while traffic impact studies are broader, including a range of improvements, environmental impacts, and future transportation needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between a traffic impact analysis/assessment and a traffic impact study lies in their scope and detail. A traffic impact analysis or assessment typically refers to the examination of the effects that a proposed development or land use change will have on the immediate transportation network. It focuses on the impact of traffic generated by the new development, evaluating things like capacity, road safety, and level of service of nearby roads, in light of current and projected traffic volumes. Conversely, a traffic impact study can be broader and more in-depth, incorporating a wider area and potentially considering a longer timeframe.
For instance, a traffic impact study may include cost-benefit analysis, which can help determine the most effective ways to improve transportation infrastructure, as indicated by a 1985 Texas A&M study. Unlike the more narrow analysis focused on a specific development, a study might take into account historical data and look at a range of potential improvements to the road network, including analysis on environmental impacts, current expenditures on road maintenance, and public transportation planning. While an analysis assesses the direct traffic implications of new development, a study provides a holistic view of the transportation system's current status and future needs.