Citation

Pretty R. ITE J. 1984; 54(9): 43-47.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1984, Institute of Transportation Engineers)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article considers the South East Freeway in Brisbane, Australia as an example where congestion occurs regularly especially in the morning peak period, and recommends closure of two ramps together with the use of variable-message direction signs. The development of the conditions for closure of the ramps is detailed. It is shown that Newell's merging principle of entering vehicles taking over priority in congested conditions applies regularly on the inbound South East Freeway. This leads to a future departure system-optimized flow pattern in the corridor. The recommended solution to this specific case is to activate variable-message direction signs to encourage ramp motorists to divert and then to physically close the ramp for as long as congested conditions remain on the ramp. Closure has fewer operating problems than metering and is generally preferred.