Implementation Framework for Bus Queue Jump Lane in Urban Corridors with Heterogeneous Traffic Operations

Abstract

Queue jump lane (QJL) is a space-optimal facility-based priority measure to improve public transport operation at the intersection where the buses face a majority of the delay. This paper aims to design an implementation framework for QJL by focusing on the geometric specification of QJL and developing design strategy options for different scenarios of implementation. These strategy options have been designed after reviewing the different aspects of QJL, in combination with other elements, such as pre-signal, bus advance area, bus stop location, etc., which can bring effective results in terms of improving the bus travel time without significantly impacting the other vehicle users. After reviewing these strategies, different elements required for the implementation of QJL, such as road geometry, placement, and introduction of signages and road markings, etc., have been identified by studying the planning guidelines of dedicated bus lane/queue jump lanes followed in India as well as other countries. The implementation framework proposed in this work will be useful to practitioners who are interested to implement the queue jump lane as a bus priority measure in India in lieu of the existing practices of only providing dedicated bus lanes.