Traffic Capacity Through Urban Freeway Work Zones in Texas

Findings of capacity studies conducted at urban freeway maintenance and construction work zones in Houston and Dallas are summarized. Studies were conducted on five-, four-, and three-lane freeway sections. The results indicate that the per-lane capacities are affected by the number of lanes open during the roadwork. For example, the average capacity on a three-lane section with two lanes open was 1500 vehicles per hour per lane (vphpl), whereas the average capacity with one lane open was only 1130 vphpl. Also illustrated is how the data can be used to estimate the effects of the lane closure. The results of the study can be used in scheduling work that involves lane closures on freeways.