Implementation of automated travel-time information and public reaction on urban highway rehabilitation

Abstract

Transportation agencies are becoming more aware of the seriousness of traffic delay caused by urban freeway rehabilitation and are experimenting with the use of intelligent transportation systems to control traffic demand in construction work zones (CWZ). This case study presents the process, evaluation, and public reaction to the implementation of an automated work zone information system (AWIS), as well as an Internet public outreach program, to mitigate traffic delays during the reconstruction of a section of Interstate-15 (I-15) near Devote in Southern California. The project consisted of a 4.5-km stretch of high traffic volume concrete pavement that was rebuilt during two 9-day closures (one for each direction) using continuous construction operations. The approach produced up to 18% reduction in peak-hour traffic demand through the CWZ, which reduced maximum delays from 90 to 50 min producing a $3.6 million benefit in potential road user cost savings. The intelligent systems also contributed to reversing initial public reluctance toward the accelerated rehabilitation approach. The study will help transportation agencies efficiently configure and operate AWIS in combination with public outreach for highway rehabilitation under high traffic volume.