Book Description

This report documents the development of a decision support methodology that accomplishes two objectives: (1) sorts out the relationships between managed lanes concepts and strategies, and (2) maps the knowledge territory in order to identify gaps. In conjunction with this particular research task, a user-friendly preliminary screening tool has been developed to assist the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in identifying managed lanes strategy options very early in the conceptual planning process. The framework for the decision support methodology is the backbone for the Managed Lanes Handbook, which offers the resources and guidance to develop a managed lanes project, addressing characteristics unique to individual facilities. This report also summarizes the evolution of managed lanes in Texas over the last five years, the legislative initiatives that have shaped TxDOTs current approach to implementation, and the gaps in the knowledge base that still leave many questions unanswered. At the national level managed lanes are a relatively new and emerging concept. However, TxDOT has led the nation in research and development with two highoccupancy toll (HOT) lanes and 10 freeway high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) facilities in operation and over a dozen managed lanes projects currently under development in 10 Texas cities. Even with the experience to date, there are still many unanswered questions related to the long-term operation of managed lanes and numerous unknown factors that will require further research and documented practical experience through diligent monitoring and evaluation of facilities as they are implemented.