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Cover of Tools that Impact Network Performance: Road Space Allocation Tools
Tools that Impact Network Performance: Road Space Allocation Tools
  • Publication no: AP-R311-07
  • ISBN: 978-1-921329-14-2
  • Published: 1 October 2007
The objective of this report is to identify and document the findings, experiences and issues associated with the application of various road space allocation tools available to road managers. These tools are used to maximise the effectiveness of the existing and established road network infrastructure in order to better manage an ever growing traffic congestion problem. The tools reviewed as part of this investigation include the application of clearways, hard shoulder running, vehicle priority measures either through signal alterations or lane allocation, reversible lanes, zip merging, overtaking controls and unconventional intersection design. This report presents the findings from the review of the available literature and discussions with various experts and practitioners involved in the application of these tools. Many of the tools have been around for a long time. They have tended to be site specific and over time, as congestion worsens, the application of each tool has had to be reviewed, increasing the operational periods of the tool. Balancing the conflicting demands of passenger vehicles and transit and freight vehicles is often a key issue to be addressed. Technological advancements have permitted better applications of the tools, often in combination with other tools and also enabled better enforcement. Driver and community education is important in reducing confusion and gaining acceptance, leading to realisation of the full benefits of the tools.
  • AP-R311-07 Tools that Impact Network Performance: Road Space Allocation Tools
  • 1. INTRODUCTION
    • 1.1. Project Brief
    • 1.2. Objectives
    • 1.3. Structure of the Report
    • 1.4. Referencing Discussions with Practitioners
  • 2. BACKGROUND
  • 3. ROAD SPACE ALLOCATION TOOLS
    • 3.1. Clearways/parking
    • 3.2. Hard Shoulder
    • 3.3. Vehicle Priority: Traffic Signals
    • 3.4. Vehicle Priority: Lanes
    • 3.5. Reversible Lanes
    • 3.6. Merging: Zip Merging
    • 3.7. Overtaking
    • 3.8. Unconventional Intersection Design
  • 4. FINDINGS, IMPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
    • 4.1. Clearways/parking
    • 4.2. Hard shoulder
    • 4.3. Vehicle Priority: Traffic Signals
    • 4.4. Vehicle Priority: Lanes
    • 4.5. Reversible lanes
    • 4.6. Merging: Zip Merging
    • 4.7. Overtaking
    • 4.8. Unconventional Intersection Design
  • 5. CONCLUSIONS
  • REFERENCES