Using All-way Stop Control for Residential Traffic Management


Book Description

All-way, or multiway, stop signs are perhaps the most controversial form of residential traffic control. Residents are likely to request all-way stop signs more frequently than any other form of control. Stop signs are thought of as panaceas for many traffic problems. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) receives requests for all-way stop control (AWSC) on residential streets primarily to slow traffic, but also to reduce cut-through traffic. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of AWSC for residential traffic management. The study was limited to the use of AWSC on local residential streets. A comprehensive review of the literature and a questionnaire survey of selected traffic engineering agencies were conducted to identify current use of AWSC. Three case studies using a series of AWSC intersections to reduce cut-through traffic on local residential streets were analyzed. The majority of traffic engineering agencies use AWSC warrants from the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Several agencies use modified MUTCD warrants or a rating system because the MUTCD warrants appear inappropriate for residential streets with lower traffic volumes. When installed at a series of intersections, AWSC was effective in reducing cut-through volumes at the three locations. VDOT should continue to use a series of AWSC intersections as one tool to decrease cut-through traffic on local residential streets.




Optimal Traffic Control


Book Description

Despite traffic circles, four-way stop signs, lights regulated by timers or sensors, and other methods, the management of urban intersections remains problematic. Consider that transportation systems have all the features of so-called complex systems: the great number of state and control variables, the presence of uncertainty and indeterminism, th




Guidelines for Removal of Traffic Control Devices in Rural Areas


Book Description

It is commonly regarded that the overuse of traffic control devices desensitizes drivers and leads to disrespect, especially for low-volume secondary roads with limited enforcement. The maintenance of traffic signs is also a tort liability concern, exacerbated by unnecessary signs. The Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and the Institute of Transportation Engineer's (ITE) Traffic Control Devices Handbook provide guidance for the implementation of STOP signs based on expected compliance with right-of-way rules, provision of through traffic flow, context (proximity to other controlled intersections), speed, sight distance, and crash history. The approach(es) to stop is left to engineering judgment and is usually dependent on traffic volume or functional class/continuity of system. Although presently being considered by the National Committee on Traffic Control Devices, traffic volume itself is not given as a criterion for implementation in the MUTCD. STOP signs have been installed at many locations for various reasons which no longer (or perhaps never) met engineering needs. If in fact the presence of STOP signs does not increase safety, removal should be considered. To date, however, no guidance exists for the removal of STOP signs at two-way stop-controlled intersections. The scope of this research is ultra-low-volume (




Roadside Design Guide


Book Description




Safety at Street Works and Road Works


Book Description

This publication sets out the statutory requirements for signing, lighting, and guarding at street works and road works. This is the core reference manual for utility companies, local authorities, street work contractors and others whose day-to-day business involves street works (works by statutory undertakers and other utility companies etc) and road works (works to maintain or repair road infrastructure). The code, which covers all of the UK and includes national variations, is now compulsory for highway/road authorities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It applies to all single carriageway roads and dual carriageways with a speed limit of 40 mph or less. The code is now divided into three parts: Basic Principles, Operations, and Equipment and Vehicles; site layout diagrams have been redrawn to make them easier to understand. There is: increased emphasis on using risk assessment and guidance on what to consider in such assessments; strengthened guidance on providing for pedestrians and cyclists and new guidance on traffic control measures related to road closures, one-way working and temporary road obstructions; enhanced advice on other traffic control measures including works near tramways and railways, and mobile/short duration works; and updated advice on high visibility clothing and the signing and conspicuity requirements for work vehicles. Effective from 1 October 2014 when it will supersede the 2001 edition (ISBN 9780115519581).







Traffic Signal Timing Manual


Book Description

This report serves as a comprehensive guide to traffic signal timing and documents the tasks completed in association with its development. The focus of this document is on traffic signal control principles, practices, and procedures. It describes the relationship between traffic signal timing and transportation policy and addresses maintenance and operations of traffic signals. It represents a synthesis of traffic signal timing concepts and their application and focuses on the use of detection, related timing parameters, and resulting effects to users at the intersection. It discusses advanced topics briefly to raise awareness related to their use and application. The purpose of the Signal Timing Manual is to provide direction and guidance to managers, supervisors, and practitioners based on sound practice to proactively and comprehensively improve signal timing. The outcome of properly training staff and proactively operating and maintaining traffic signals is signal timing that reduces congestion and fuel consumption ultimately improving our quality of life and the air we breathe. This manual provides an easy-to-use concise, practical and modular guide on signal timing. The elements of signal timing from policy and funding considerations to timing plan development, assessment, and maintenance are covered in the manual. The manual is the culmination of research into practices across North America and serves as a reference for a range of practitioners, from those involved in the day to day management, operation and maintenance of traffic signals to those that plan, design, operate and maintain these systems.







Traffic Control Systems Handbook


Book Description

This handbook, which was developed in recognition of the need for the compilation and dissemination of information on advanced traffic control systems, presents the basic principles for the planning, design, and implementation of such systems for urban streets and freeways. The presentation concept and organization of this handbook is developed from the viewpoint of systems engineering. Traffic control studies are described, and traffic control and surveillance concepts are reviewed. Hardware components are outlined, and computer concepts, and communication concepts are stated. Local and central controllers are described, as well as display, television and driver information systems. Available systems technology and candidate system definition, evaluation and implementation are also covered. The management of traffic control systems is discussed.




Roundabouts


Book Description

TRB's National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Report 672: Roundabouts: An Informational Guide - Second Edition explores the planning, design, construction, maintenance, and operation of roundabouts. The report also addresses issues that may be useful in helping to explain the trade-offs associated with roundabouts. This report updates the U.S. Federal Highway Administration's Roundabouts: An Informational Guide, based on experience gained in the United States since that guide was published in 2000.