Route Solver - Add Locations - Convert Model Builder to Python script

Question

Greetings:

I have created a manual process of creating a route within a File Geodatabase with the Add Locations and Solve geoprocessing tool, also building it into a model within ModelBuilder. However, the goal is to export the model to a stand-alone Python script to incorporate into an already established batch file.

The issue I cannot solve is when I run the script outside of GIS, it keeps saying the path to the Network Analysis Layer does not exist. I also cannot figure out the proper path syntax for the route layer.

Doing something wrong?

Melinda Morang · Answer

If you're using a network dataset on your own system (one you created yourself or Streetmap Premium that you purchased from Esri), then you need the Network Analyst extension license.  If you're solving against the ArcGIS Online services, you don't need the extension license.

For questions about licensing and what tools and options you have available with your current licensing, your designated Esri representative is your best resource, so you should reach out to them. (If you're not sure who that person is or how to get in touch with them, feel free to send me a private message with your name and organization, and I can find out for you.)

ModernGIS · Answer

@MelindaMorang

I am trying to utilize the current license I have in ArcGIS Pro Advanced with a limited number of ArcTools available. From reviewing the help section, it appears what I am trying to do would require the Network Analyst extension license?

Melinda Morang · Answer

Yes, you can call any model tool from Python.  You might get errors if the model has hard-coded data paths or is looking for layers in the map and it's being run outside of the map context.  You can make the inputs and output model parameters so your script can explicitly pass in the paths to the inputs and specify the output paths.

Here is a tutorial all about creating models for Network Analyst workflows, including some steps for configuring the model to run as a tool: https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/analysis/networks/create-a-model-for-route-analysis.htm#

If you continue to have problems, it is helpful, when you post a comment, if you paste the actual error you're getting.  Very helpful for diagnosing the problem!