This paper looks at possible methods to increase capacity on existing motorways by utilizing available shoulder space and/or reversing traffic lanes during peak hours, and also reversing on/off current motorway ramp configurations (moving to a system of off/on instead of on/off). This procedureresults in capacity gains of 40-50% without widening the motorway, just using the space available in a more efficient manner, and utilizing intelligent transportation system (ITS) and Smart techniques to help make it happen. The purpose of the paper is to more fully explore existing and proposed Hard Shoulder and ITS or Active Traffic Management (ATM) techniques inthe UK, Europe, and the US, and to help determine cost effective methods to adding capacity to existing motorways.
Abstract