Effects of static bottlenecks on traffic flow in urban road network

Abstract

Existing traffic flow models do not consider the effects of road static bottlenecks on traffic flow. In this paper, a modified macroscopic continuum  model for traffic flow on urban road network with static bottlenecks is presented. The model takes into account the fluctuations of traffic flow considering static bottlenecks during the morning peak period. The model results show that existence of static road bottlenecks with various configurations cause traffic flow instabilities. This phenomenon lead into stop-and-go traffic flow conditions under the moderate density and reduction of the traffic system’s efficiency. Furthermore, results show that an increase in traffic density is accompanied by a significant decrease of speed which adversely influences performance of roadway and decrease the traffic system’s efficiency and thus resulting to the occurrence of congestions. The methodological aspects of the study and results will enable traffic engineers and planners to assess and improve existing urban
road networks.

Keywords: Traffic flow, Bottlenecks, stability, Stop-and-go traffic, System’s efficiency, Congestion.