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Freeways

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An Introduction to Traffic Flow Theory

Part of the book series: Springer Optimization and Its Applications ((SOIA,volume 84))

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Abstract

Freeways are defined as those facilities that afford uninterrupted flow of traffic, i.e., there is full access control. Control of access refers to public access rights from properties along the freeway; access to freeway facilities is allowed only through selected public roads, typically on- and off-ramps [1]. Thus, freeways generally operate at higher speeds and higher capacities than urban arterial streets or local roadways.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Civil and Coastal Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA

    Lily Elefteriadou

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  1. Lily Elefteriadou
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Problems

Problems

  1. 1.

    Conduct a literature review regarding advanced traffic management for freeway systems. What types of strategies are available internationally? Are there specific guidelines for implementing a specific strategy under specific conditions?

  2. 2.

    Conduct a literature review to document the interactions between VSL, ramp metering, and HOV/HOT lanes.

  3. 3.

    Conduct a literature review to identify simulation packages that evaluate freeway systems. Document the way each simulator replicates the network, merging operations, and upgrade sections. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each approach?

  4. 4.

    A freeway merge section has three lanes of traffic along the mainline with a demand equal to 5200 vph. The ramp has one lane and a demand equal to 750 vph. There are 10% trucks in the traffic stream, and the free-flow speed is 65 mph. The terrain is level. Conduct an HCM 2010 analysis to determine the LOS at this section. Also, use your favorite microsimulator package to replicate the same facility. What is the LOS estimated by this microsimulator?

  5. 5.

    Estimate the operating speed of a freeway with the following characteristics: three lanes per direction, a free-flow speed of 68 mph, a peak hour demand of 6350 vph, and 5% trucks with a PCE of 2.0. What is the LOS of the facility and what is its capacity? Is capacity exceeded during the peak hour? Clearly state any assumptions necessary for solving the problem. (To solve this problem, use Chap. 11 of the HCM 2010.)

  6. 6.

    Review the state of the art in the development and deployment of CAVs. How has the field changed relative to the challenges outlined in the last section of this chapter?

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Elefteriadou, L. (2024). Freeways. In: An Introduction to Traffic Flow Theory. Springer Optimization and Its Applications, vol 84. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-54030-1_9

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