First off we have no expertise. But we have attempted to use HAZUS in the preparation of our hazard mitigation planning process here in the flatlands of Ohio. The software requires some of the same data that’s used in the transportation modeling process. And the data can be used for establishing the independent variables within the TAZs. The problem is that we do not collect all the HAZUS data required for the entire model area and restrict the time intensive process only to those populated areas we suspect are subject to flood and dam hazard mitigation issues.

            TMM

From: ctpp-news-bounces@chrispy.net [mailto:ctpp-news-bounces@chrispy.net] On Behalf Of Elaine.Murakami@dot.gov
Sent: Friday, April 13, 2012 4:50 PM
To: ctpp-news@chrispy.net
Subject: [CTPP] HAZUS from FEMA-- user experience?

Hi Everyone –

Back in the Jan 2008 issue http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/planning/census_issues/ctpp/status_report/sr0108.cfm of the CTPP Status report, we included a brief article about HAZUS, because the CTPP2000 is used.

Recently, for a FHWA research project, Oak Ridge National Labs used this dataset (May 2011 version) as a land use proxy, and for creating a land use diversity measure.   Land use is reported by square footage at the block level and has seven main categories:  residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, religious, government and education.  Some categories have further detail, for example, the residential category includes number of units per residence, nursing home, etc.)  The commercial category includes retail store, restaurant, theatre and several other categories.

Http://www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/hazus

What has been your experience with this dataset?  Please share your knowledge and expertise.  Thanks!

Elaine Murakami

FHWA Office of Planning

206-220-4460 (in Seattle)