Although ramp metering is not widely deployed in France, the first trials began in 1970. In 1998 three test sites were then selected. The A6 motorway in the Paris region, where fixed-time ramp emters operated during the morning peak period, was equipped with a traffic responsive system. The test site in Marseilles, located on A50, is not yet equipped, but initial studies indicate good prospects, and more in-depth analysis is underway. The third test site comprises 3 access ramps on a section of the peripheral expressway around Bordeaux. The system will be based on the ALINEA strategy (outlined in this paper) and will allow one vehicle at a time on the expressway. There is a clear need to consolidate results and best practice at a national and European level.
Samenvatting