Development of Strategic Plan for Deployment of Intelligent Transportation System Equipment Utility Index Decision Framework

作者：Gartner Nathan H^*; Stamatiadis Chronis; Srinivas Sushma; Feula Austin

来源：Transportation Research Record, 2014, 2423(2423): 68-78.

DOI：10.3141/2423-09

This paper develops a methodology for the strategic placement of intelligent transportation system (ITS) devices such as variable message signs (VMSs) and closed circuit video equipment (CCVE) across a highway network. These devices are widely used by highway departments to observe and to detect highway incidents and to communicate with drivers. The devices have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing delays and accidents, increasing throughput, and providing real-time information to the motoring public. Although motorists cannot measure directly the benefits associated with these devices over their lifetime, this study has adopted surrogate measures for the evaluation of the benefits that accrue to motorists. The methodology uses a utility index decision criterion composed of the following four components: crash frequency, diversion opportunity, level of congestion, and traffic exposure. Each of these measures addresses an aspect of the benefits associated with the installation of the ITS elements. By combining them in a utility index, an overall measure of the benefits contributed by these elements can be obtained. The utility index is calculated for each link of the highway network, and a priority list for instrumenting the links with the highest potential return is developed. The methodology described in this paper was used to develop a strategic plan for the placement of VMSs and CCVE along the highway network operated by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation Highway Operations Center.

• 出版日期2014