Access Management Using Geographic Information Systems and Traffic Management Tools in Pennsylvania

A new method for access management using traffic impact tools is described. The method targets impact assessment of developments combined with large activity centers. The magnitude of impact of large developments necessitates assessment of their regional and local effects on transportation networks. The method described combines regional and local traffic models and uses geographic information systems (GISs) as support tools. It was created as an access control method for computerized models and addresses supply-side transportation improvements (e.g., number of lanes, signalization, and parking controls) and their effect on traffic flow in an attempt to create better quantitative models for congestion management and access control by considering local and regional traffic impacts together. GIS technology enables users to create detailed highway networks for use in regional forecasting models and in smaller traffic simulation models. The data, models, and software used are outlined and an example of application is provided. The initial results show the efficacy of the concept and the resulting models. In the regional model, the new development generates not only new traffic volume on the network, but also route-choice changes influenced by the level of service on the specific corridors in the study area. Another component of the new model is a local model connected to a regional model through interface software. Using Traf-NETSIM, two scenarios were simulated to test the efficacy of this model system. Twenty-four independent simulation runs indicated that the access control scenario results in higher speed and less traffic delay on the primary arterial road.