Recommendations for Ramp Metering Operations in Texas (0-4629-S)

The primary objective of this project was to compare ramp metering algorithms and develop guidelines for improving ramp metering operations in Texas. As part of this research project, researchers collected data at several sites in Houston, Texas. Data analysis showed that many congested freeways are facing heavy ramp demand, and require significant changes in existing ramp metering operations if ramp metering continues to be used as part of freeway traffic management. Furthermore, researchers used computer simulation to compare the effectiveness of ALINEA with queue flush with the existing strategy of metering at the maximum rate with queue flushing. Researchers found that ALINEA does not provide any benefits when queue flushing is permitted. Under heavy demand conditions such as those in Houston, the current strategy to meter at the fastest rate remains the most beneficial. However, this strategy also provides limited benefits. Finally, researchers developed guidelines and recommendations for current and future ramp metering operations in Texas. This report documents the research results.