The fuel supply shortage problem emerged in the last few hurricane eventsunderscores the weakness of existing emergency logistic planning process.Central to the refueling station location and supply planning decision isan effective modeling approach. This paper documents a research effort based on the simulation-optimization framework integrating both mixed integer program formulation and mesoscopic simulation model. The mesoscopic simulation model incorporates realistic refueling station selection decision for evacuees and stalled vehicles impact on traffic flow. A mixed integerprogram (MIP) formulation is aimed at maximizing the served demand by deciding on which stations to open and how much fuel to supply given the set constraints. The interplays of simulation and optimization model continue until convergence. The proposed modeling approach was applied to a case study on interstate I-45 corridor between Houston and Dallas to highlight the characteristic of the proposed modeling approach.
Abstract