Abstract
The paper presents the methodology for traffic impact studies for main junctions and interchanges, in order to assess the current traffic performance and possible bottlenecks, for identifying possible improvements and the effects of implementing them. Future traffic generators represented by various developments in the area can be considered for estimating the future impact on the traffic flows. The following basic information is needed: 1) layout of the main junction/interchange, 2) links attributes as length, number of lanes, capacity, speed, 3) traffic control: signs and cycle times for controlled junctions, 4) traffic flows for the peak hours by category of vehicles and by movements. The simulation is carried out with the traffic model that is developed for the specific case to be analysed. For the current case study VISUM transport planning software tool is used. The following activities are considered: 1) Collect information about the junction/interchange layout and build the model network and zoning system, 2) Collect traffic information for the peak hours, 3) Develop the traffic model for the basic conditions, 4) Assess the basic conditions and identify the traffic performance, 5) Identify measures for improvements, 6) Implement the measures and estimate the effects. The effects of implementing the measures are quantified by the total travel time and the emissions of CO, CO2, NOx, HC, PM10. The benefits of implementing the measures are estimating by comparing the total travel time and emissions with the basic situation.
Keywords: Traffic Impact, Junctions/Interchanges, Traffic Performance, Traffic Generators, Traffic Flows