This study utilized integrated, stochastic traffic operational analysis software to evaluate the use of transportation system management (TSM) strategies during the construction work zone operating conditions along 27 miles (43.4 km) of Interstate 95 (I-95) in Jacksonville, Florida. During this construction period, I-95 will be widened from four to six lanes. Traffic will be diverted to Philips Highway (US 1) which is contiguous with I-95. During the two-year construction period, capacity will be constrained along I-95. Philips Highway is targeted to accept the traffic that must be diverted from I-95 during incidents and occasional closings and is currently operating at congested levels. As a result, a series of TSM alternatives was explored to improve travel time, increase transit usage and reduce automobile emissions within the corridor. This paper presents a summary of the software evaluation techniques, alternatives considered and benefits derived from the project. The recommended improvements resulted in 23-minute travel time savings in the morning peak and 19.6-minute travel time savings in the afternoon peak, resulting in a $32,000,000 savings in vehicle stop and travel delays and a $2,150,000 savings per year in fuel consumption over the two-year construction period. The total estimated costs for the project were $1,466,300, resulting in a benefit cost ratio of 23.3:1 for the two-year construction period alone. (A)
Abstract