Work Zone Analysis Model for the Signalized Arterial

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate new theoretical concepts used to represent traffic flow in work zones. The paper presents the development and applications of a microcomputer program–Work Zone Analysis Tool for the Arterial (WZATA)–for the analysis and evaluation of a system consisting of a lane closure between two signalized intersections. The program consists of two parts: a semi-simulation model to represent and analyze flow between the intersections, and a macroscopic model to represent traffic characteristics at the downstream intersection. New techniques were developed to represent percentage merges and vehicle merge characteristics before the lane closure. The user was provided direct control over the merging of every vehicle. A modified version of the continuum-flow theory was utilized to represent and analyze traffic flow at the downstream intersection. Flow was considered to be composed of two parts: the platoon flow and the non-platoon flow. The techniques of analysis used also considered acceleration, deceleration, and start/stop losses. The program is written in Microsoft BASIC for the IBM-PC/XT/AT and is structured to facilitate easy modification of data as well as analysis of various hypothetical situations. Attempts are being made to include graphical display facilities in the model.