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Publication

Capacity Modeling and Control Optimization for a Two-Lane Highway Lane-Closure Work Zone

Author/Presenter: Zhu, Wenbo; Li, Zhibin; Ash, John; Wang, Yinhai; Hua, Xuedong
Abstract:

A two-lane highway lane closure work zone is a unique work zone type because of its traffic impact. When one lane of traffic is blocked, it is necessary to implement a traffic control strategy to effectively serve bidirectional traffic. In the sense that the right of way is allocated between two directions sequentially, traffic control at two-lane highway work zones is similar to signalized intersection traffic control. In order to analyze the problem, this study proposes two primary methodologies: (1) mathematical capacity and delay functions based on signalized intersection theory, and (2) a microsimulation model calibrated using field observed data. After fine-tuning the parameters, the mathematical functions were able to estimate delays with reasonable accuracy. The models developed in this study were applied in the optimization of a two-lane highway lane closure work zone control management plan. The resultant delay-capacity diagrams indicate that for pretimed control, roadway capacity should be maintained at a slightly higher level than the traffic demand, whereas the dynamic traffic control scheme is able to achieve lower delay results than the optimal pretimed signal control.

Source: Journal of Transportation Engineering, Part A: Systems
Volume: 143
Issue: 12
Publication Date: September 2017
Source URL: Link to URL
Publication Types: Books, Reports, Papers, and Research Articles
Topics: Lane Closure; Mathematical Models; Temporary Traffic Control; Work Zone Capacity

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