In their fight against traffic jams the Dutch Department of Public Works, East Netherlands Directorate (RWS-ON), wants to inform motorists on the A2 motorway, between the cities of Den Bosch and Nieuwegein, about the time that can be gained by adjusting departure times. This report outlines the evaluation plan for the `Departure time adjustment' experiment. The evaluation study comprises three phases. In the first phase, a zero measurement is carried out, where no measures have been implemented. Motorists are not informed of the planned measures. In the second phase, billboards will be placed along the route. At five places along the route between Den Bosch and Nieuwegein the possibility of departure time adjustment will be pointed out to motorists. The aim of this phase is to change motorists' perceptions of departure time adjustment. In the third phase, the dynamic `on-line' phase, motorists will be informed about the reduction in journey time that could be realised through departure time adjustment. The aim of this phase is to change the motorists' behaviour, thereby reducing traffic jams (duration and/or length). The report offers further elaboration of the expected effects, the evaluation, the indicators to be used, a measuring plan, and the organisation of analyses. (A)
Abstract