Joint optimization of ramp closure, lane reorganization, and signal control strategies for freeway mainline closure owing to construction zones

ABSTRACT

This study introduces an innovative bi-level model to address the challenges of managing traffic flow in construction work zones in urban transportation networks. The model integrates ramp closure, lane reorganization, and signal timing strategies within a network-level framework, thereby capturing the interdependencies between these strategies and enhancing the overall performance of the transportation network. The upper level optimizes the ramp closure locations, traffic control timing at signalized intersections and lane reorganization plans, whereas the lower level determines the optimal routing choice and traffic detour based on a Stochastic User Equilibrium (SUE) model. A Genetic Algorithm (GA)-based heuristic method is proposed to solve the optimization problem, and a case study demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed approach. This study offers a comprehensive and innovative solution to mitigate the negative impacts of detour traffic on urban transportation networks, assist transportation agencies in effectively managing traffic flow and improve the overall system performance.

KEYWORDS:

• Construction work zone
• bi-level model
• stochastic user equilibrium
• genetic algorithm
• variational inequality

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1 https://static.tti.tamu.edu/tti.tamu.edu/documents/mobility-report-2021.pdf

2 https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/program_areas/reduce-non-cong.htm

3 https://workzonesafety.org/work-zone-data/

4 https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/driving-tampa-bay-forward/attention-drivers-upcoming-lane-closures-to-impact-travel-on-i-275

Additional information

Funding

This work has been supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [grant number 52122215], Shanghai Shuguang Program [grant number 22SG45] and Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai [grant number 20ZR1439300].