고속도로 Express Lane 설치 효과에 관한 연구 - 서울외곽순환고속도로 계양-장수 구간을 중심으로 -

Abstract

This study was focused on evaluating an alternative for solving traffic congestions in express ways, by operating separated express lanes for longer traffic trips. Aa a study test bed, Seoul belt way as chosen because the expressway section has been used by shorter trip users. In a study, an operation with express lane was proposed as an alternative to lessen the congestion. Three scenarios were identified for a microscopic simulation analysis and each of them was evaluated compared to other scenarios. This paper reviewed the application examples on express lane and suggested a way to install a separated express lane. It also examined the traffic patterns, speeds, volumes, origin and destination(OD), and geometric characteristics. These traffic and geometric data were used as inputs for building simulation networks. Scenarios were identified to evaluate the performance of express lanes when the road and traffic conditions at the test bed were changed. A microscopic model VISSIM 5.0 was used for this study because it can simulate the individual vehicle movements, and vehicle and road interactions. The results showed that express lane was useful for improving the operation for longer trip users, but not shorter trip users. When considering an express lane operation, this study suggests that alternative routes to signalized intersections be prepared. More vehicles will try to transfer to the signalized intersections for reducing travel times and these can result in traffic congestions at signalized intersections. Therefore, the operation of signalized intersections should be improved simultaneously when considering the express lane operation in near future.