Project Meeting 2017.06.09

Input Loading Step

We'd like to split out the input table loading into a new first step
We'll add the input tables as filenames to the settings file and explicitly read in the tables as opposed to relying on the orca lazy loading
This will make it easier for a user to get started and to customize/extend the models
We can also move the orca dynamic columns into expression files eventually (but this may come later due to resources)
This would be under Task 6 - Completing Phase 1 Models
We won't do this right now since its low priority

@Stefan wants to build the existing DaySim parcel buffering procedures into ActivitySim
This will require a new sub-module, maybe activitysim.abm.models.buffering
It will need its own example/test, probably PSRC data, and an input loading step
@PSRC to get started by forking the repo
Support for this will not be part of this contract so PSRC and RSG to discuss other options
Once ready, ActivitySim team will consider/review a pull request

We're almost at the point where we can contribute the first working version of populationSim into ActivitySim
This will require a new sub-model, maybe activitysim.popsim
It will need its own example/test - we're currently using the CALM region of Oregon, and an input loading step
We plan to fork the repo, add this, and issue a pull request for review
Maybe MTC can try setting this up and adding an MTC example to the project eventually?

We're going to get back into this work now that the populationSim work is slowing down
We're planning to speed up the pandas queries and formally integrate this into the code base
It will be under activitysim.core and the activitysim.abm example will be updated as well
@Jeff to get back into this soon

Starting in a few weeks, Jeff will be halftime for the summer
We will work on multiple zone systems for SANDAG and Task 4 logsums next
We've spent about 40% of the phase 3 funds
SANDAG is interested in accelerating the funding in the second half of the year. SFCTA wants to see more progress before revising the funding schedule.
@PSRC to discuss payment/funding and get back to the group.
A number of agencies are interested in potentially joining the project. The most promising appears to be MWCOG (Washington DC). Other interested agencies include Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Cincinnati, Milwaukee, and Detroit. MWCOG is the most promising since it doesn't have an ABM, is on the east coast, and is a very complex region.
@Clint to reach out to MWCOG about next steps and will also thank the others.