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ORCID
N/A
Access Type
Open Access Thesis
Document Type
thesis
Degree Program
Civil Engineering
Degree Type
Master of Science in Civil Engineering (M.S.C.E.)
Year Degree Awarded
2015
Month Degree Awarded
February
Abstract
Static speed limits are the norm across the world’s roadway networks. However, advances in technology and increased applications in intelligent transportation systems (ITS) provide a mechanism for upgrading traditional speed limits into an active traffic management system. More specifically, variable speed limits (VSLs) can be used in high crash severity locations and in real-time congestion and weather events to increase traffic safety and operations. Much of the available literature on VSLs focuses upon crash prediction algorithms for VSLs, simulations, and effectiveness of real-world VSL implementations. One noticeable gap in the existing literature is related to driver compliance under varied configurations of alerting drivers of the variable speeds. An additional gap in literature is related to existence of a conceptual framework for identifying optimal corridors for potential VSL implementation. Within this thesis drivers’ willingness to comply with VSLs was investigated via focus groups and static surveys during the experimental process. Connections are made between driver speed choice and type of speed limit condition including uniform speed vi limit (USL) versus VSL, overhead mount versus side mount, presence of an explanatory message, and the numerical speed limit value. An analysis of the survey results was completed to isolate critical factors in VSL compliance. Opinions and perspectives on VSLs are derived through the focus group sessions Lastly, a case study approach is presented in which a region is chosen, and implementation metrics are analyzed on the major roadway networks using a GIS platform to create a composite ranking system for potential optimal VSL corridors. The study aims to be used as a foundation to justify use of certain types of VSLs in addition to creating a conceptual framework for VSL implementation zone identification.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/6463900
First Advisor
Michael A Knodler
Recommended Citation
Harrington, Curt P., "Driver Behavior Evaluation of Variable Speed Limits and a Conceptual Framework for Optimal VSL Location Identification" (2015). Masters Theses. 154.
https://doi.org/10.7275/6463900
https://scholarworks.umass.edu/masters_theses_2/154
Included in
Civil Engineering Commons, Construction Engineering and Management Commons, Other Civil and Environmental Engineering Commons