Abstract:
High occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, also known as carpool lanes and diamond lanes, are designated for use by carpoolers, transit riders, ride sharers and motorcyclists that meet the occupancy requirement. By restricting access, the HOV lanes benefit users by allowing them to travel the freeway system at a faster speed, thus saving time, and experiencing greater time reliability in comparison to motorists on general purpose (GP) lanes. To accurately evaluate the system's effectiveness, a state policy requires an annual HOV system report to document system performance, examining the HOV lanes' person-carrying capability, travel time savings, and trip reliability benefits in comparison to adjacent GP lanes. HOV lane violation rates are also evaluated. This report describes the results of an extensive monitoring effort of HOV lane use and performance in the Puget Sound area in 2002. It presents an analysis of data collected to describe the number of people and vehicles that use HOV lanes, the reliability of the HOV lanes, the travel time savings in comparison to GP lanes, violation rates and public perceptions. This information is intended to serve as reliable input for transportation decision makers and planners in evaluating the impact and adequacy of the existing HOV lane system in the Puget sound area, and in planning for other HOV facilities. This is volume 1 of a two-volume set. Volume 2 provides an overview of major trends in HOV lane performance by comparing data presented in the 2000 HOV Performance Report.

Authors:
Nee,J., Ishimaru,J. M., Hallenbeck,M. E.

Keywords:
analysis, benefit, benefits, carpool, data, facilities, freeway, GP lanes, high occupancy, high occupancy vehicle, HOV, HOV facilities, HOV lanes, HOV performance, monitoring, occupancy, performance, performance monitoring, planning, policy, public, reliability, research, speed, transit, transportation, travel time, violation, volume

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External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/584.2.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/500/584.2.htm

Abstract:
High occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, also known are carpool lanes and diamond lanes, are designated for use by carpoolers, transit riders, ridesharers, and motorcyclists that meet the occupancy requirement. By restricting access, the HOV lanes benefit users by allowing them to travel the freeway system at a faster speed, thus saving time and experiencing greater travel time reliability in comparison to motorists on general purpose (GP) lanes. To accurately evaluate the system's effectiveness, a state policy requires an annual HOV system report to document system performance, examining the HOV lanes' person-carrying capability, travel time savings, and trip reliability benefits in comparison to adjacent GP lanes, as well as the lanes' violation rates.This report describes the results of an extensive monitoring effort of HOV lane use and performance in the Puget Sound area in 2000. It presents an analysis of data collected to describe the number of people and vehicles that use those lanes, the reliability of the HOV lanes, travel time savings in comparison to general purpose lanes, violation rates, and public perceptions. This information is intended to serve as reliable input for transportation decision makers and planners in evaluating the impact and adequacy of the existing HOV lane system in the Puget Sound area and in planning of other HOV facilities.Descriptions of the tool set and methodology for analyzing HOV facility usage and performance in terms of vehicle and person throughput, travel time, and speed reliability measures are provided in a separate report, Evaluation Tools for HOV Lanes Performance Monitoring.

Authors:
Nee,J., Ishimaru,J. M., Hallenbeck,M. E.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, throughput, speed, reliability, travel time

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External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/506.1.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/500/506.1.htm

Abstract:
High occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, also known are carpool lanes and diamond lanes, are designated for use by carpoolers, transit riders, ridesharers, and motorcyclists that meet the occupancy requirement. By restricting access, the HOV lanes benefit users by allowing them to travel the freeway system at a faster speed, thus saving time and experiencing greater travel time reliability in comparison to motorists on general purpose (GP) lanes. To accurately evaluate the system's effectiveness, a state policy requires an annual HOV system report to document system performance, examining the HOV lanes' person-carrying capability, travel time savings, and trip reliability benefits in comparison to adjacent GP lanes, as well as the lanes' violation rates.This report describes the results of an extensive monitoring effort of HOV lane use and performance in the Puget Sound area in 2000. It presents an analysis of data collected to describe the number of people and vehicles that use those lanes, the reliability of the HOV lanes, travel time savings in comparison to general purpose lanes, violation rates, and public perceptions. This information is intended to serve as reliable input for transportation decision makers and planners in evaluating the impact and adequacy of the existing HOV lane system in the Puget Sound area and in planning of other HOV facilities.Descriptions of the tool set and methodology for analyzing HOV facility usage and performance in terms of vehicle and person throughput, travel time, and speed reliability measures are provided in a separate report, Evaluation Tools for HOV Lanes Performance Monitoring.

Authors:
Nee,J., Ishimaru,J. M., Hallenbeck,M. E.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, throughput, speed, reliability, travel time

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External Links: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/research/reports/fullreports/506.2.pdf http://wsdot.wa.gov/Research/Reports/500/506.2.htm

Abstract:
Weekend traffic volumes in the Puget Sound region of Washington State are increasing, and public concern about congestion during non-commute periods has caused WSDOT to reexamine the current policy of restricting HOV lanes to transit vehicles and carpools 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. In many parts of the country, HOV lanes are open to general traffic during non-peak hours. Should WSDOT adopt this less restrictive lane use policy?This report examines the tradeoffs that a change in weekend HOV lane usage would involve. The basic issues that are examined include the following:-What congestion relief benefits would result?-Would these changes have adverse impacts on HOV formation and/or HOV lane compliance rates?-Would highway and transit operational problems be created?-Would the weekend use of HOV lanes by general purpose vehicles create safety concerns?-What would be the monetary impacts of changing weekend HOV lane usage?Supported by a variety of performance graphics and statistics, the report concludes that no improvement in mobility would be obtained by relaxing the current Puget Sound HOV lane operating restrictions to allow weekend use of the HOV lanes by general purpose traffic.

Authors:
Ishimaru,J. M., Hallenbeck,M. E., Nee,J.

Keywords:
HOV, HOV performance, freeway performance reporting

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Abstract:
Off-peak traffic volumes in the Puget Sound region of Washington State are increasing, and public concern about congestion during non-commute periods has caused WSDOT to reexamine the current policy of restricting HOV lanes to transit vehicles and carpools 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. In many parts of the country, HOV lanes are open to general traffic during nonpeak hours. Should WSDOT adopt this less restrictive lane use policy?This report examines the tradeoffs that a change in weekend HOV lane usage would involve. The basic issues that are examined include the following:-What congestion relief benefits would result?-Would these changes have adverse impacts on HOV formation and/or HOV lane compliance rates?-Would the weekend use of HOV lanes by general purpose vehicles create safety concerns?-Would highway and transit operational problems be created?-What would be the monetary impacts of changing weekend HOV lane usage?Supported by a variety of performance graphics and statistics, the report concludes that no improvement in mobility would be obtained by relaxing the current Puget Sound HOV lane operating restrictions to allow off-peak use of the HOV lanes by general purpose traffic.

Authors:
Hallenbeck,M. E., Ishimaru,J. M., Nee,J.

Keywords:
HOV, HOV performance, freeway performance reporting

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Abstract:
This report describes the evaluation approach and the process for acquiring data, performing analysis, and presenting output with a new analytical tool set for measuring HOV facility usage and performance in the central Puget Sound region. Specifically, the tool set includes the programs CDR (Compact disc Data Retrieval), CDR Auto, CDR Analyst, and associated utilities designed to produce graphical output. A description of the available analysis tools is provided.Because data collection and analysis procedures for many of the existing measures, such as average car occupancy (ACO), speed, and travel time (using Baseline and HOVTT methods), as well as HOV violations and a public opinion survey, were documented extensively in the previous HOV evaluation and monitoring reports, they are not covered in this report. For related information, please refer to the previous documents, as well as to the project's Web site at . For performance results of the HOV facility, please refer to the annual HOV lane performance monitoring report.

Authors:
Nee,J., Ishimaru,J. M., Hallenbeck,M. E.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, throughput, speed, reliability, travel time

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Abstract:
Washington has sought to reduce commute trips to the workplace in 9 of the state's most populous counties. Such a reduction is sought to ameliorate congestion on the roadway, improve air quality, conserve fossil fuels, and promote environmental quality. Legislation has been in place since 1991 requiring both private and public employers of 100+ employees in those 9 counties to formulate plans for the implementation of varied incentives to encourage alternatives to single occupancy vehicle (SOV) travel. This legislation requires the WSDOT to monitor (by means of a biennial employee survey) progress toward a quite ambitious goal of a 35% reduction in SOV travel by 2005. This goal remains quite far from being met; the most recent survey-based estimate is that a 7% reduction has been achieved thus far. This study entails the use of a complex survey of employees in public and private sector organizations participating in this "commute trip reduction" (CRT) program. The questionnaire developed for this study is designed to gathered information on the nature of "switchers" - that is, those employees who are indeed making use of alternatives to SOV travel to the workplace. What is their profile (if any)? What factors - internal to their beliefs and values and external in their context for making decisions about commute trip modes of travel - distinguish switchers from SOV commuters? What level of support obtains for a market approach to SOV reduction by attaching a price to the choice of SOV workplace commuting? The answers observed to these questions, and sharing the survey findings and detailed comments of employees for their own organizations with local ETCs, are the principal deliverables associated with this project. This final report sets forth the results of the employee survey, set against a fairly thorough reading of the research literature in this area. Over 900 employees in 16 diverse (public and private, large and small, western, central, and eastern region) organizations participating in the program returned completed surveys. The majority of these surveys were accompanied by length comments, signifying that the survey did indeed touch the deeper roots of employee decision-making in this area of individual choice. Preliminary analysis revealed that the range of variation in organizations, in the several attitudinal scales and indices employed, and in the extent of non-SOV commuting reported would permit a fruitful analysis on the questions posed above. Of 902 respondents, 372 indicate that they are "switchers" to alternatives to SOV commuting. A profile of the switcher does emerge from this study based on both bivariate and multivariate (multiple regression and discriminant analysis) analyses. Switchers tend to value CTR incentives, come from organizations where the CTR program is strongly supported, engage in other environment-protective activities, perceive the presence of reasonably convenient alternatives to SOV travel, and be less concerned with the "convenience and flexibility" benefits of SOV commuting than SOV commuters. While there is clearly not a majority sentiment favoring SOV pricing, there is indeed evidence that a significant minority of employees are willing to experiment with some type of market-oriented pollution/congestion costing policy directed to the urban transportation gridlock phenomenon.

Authors:
Lovrich,N., Nice,D., Weber,E.

Keywords:
commute trip reduction, CTR, transportation demand management, TDM, single occupancy vehicle, SOV, high occupancy vehicle lanes, HOV, government-imposed markets, vanpools, carpools, public transportation, land use planning, congestion pricing, environmental attitudes, environmental beliefs, environmental-regarding behaviors

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Abstract:
High occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, also known as carpool lanes and diamond lanes, are designated for use by carpoolers, transit riders, ridesharers, and motorcycles that meet the occupancy requirement. By restricting access, the HOV lanes benefit users by allowing them to travel the freeway system at a faster speed, thus saving time and experiencing greater travel time reliability in comparison to motorists on general purpose (GP) lanes. To accurately evaluate the system's effectiveness, a state policy requires an annual HOV system report to document system performance, examining the HOV lanes' person-carrying capability, travel time savings, and trip reliability benefits in comparison to adjacent GP lanes, as well as the lanes' violation rates.This report describes the results of an extensive monitoring effort of HOV lane use and performance in the Puget Sound area in 1998. It presents an analysis of data collected to describe the number of people and vehicles that use those lanes, the reliability of the HOV lanes, travel time savings in comparison to general purpose lanes, violation rates, and public perceptions. This information is intended to serve as reliable input for transportation decision makers and planners in evaluating the impact and adequacy of the existing HOV lane system in the Puget Sound area and in planning for other HOV facilities.Descriptions of the tool set and methodology for analyzing HOV facility usage and performance in terms of vehicle and person throughput, travel time, and speed and reliability measures are provided in a separate report titled Evaluation Tools for HOV Lanes Performance Monitoring. Other relevant supplemental information, such as historical quarterly occupancy and probe vehicle speed data, is available from the HOV report Web site at .

Authors:
Brown,W. W., Nee,J., Ishimaru,J. M., Hallenbeck,M. E.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, throughput, speed, reliability, travel time, research

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Abstract:
This report presents and summarizes the baseline data collected in falfillment of the requirements for the Washington State Department of Transportation grant "HOV Lane Evaluation and Monitoring." This report provides the information. necessary to analyze HOV lane performance and elopment. Data collection results and analysis are presented, followed by conclusions and recommendations.The data contained herein were collected during Phase I, Phase II, Phase III, and Phase IV of the high occupancy vehicle lane (HOV) monitoring project (July 1992-June 1997). The data collection methodology is described in the final report, HOV Monitoring and Evaluation Tool". Included in this report are the following primary and secondary measures of HOV lane performance: (1) average vehicl occupancy data, (2) travel time data, (3) public opinion survey results, (4) transit ridership data, (5) enforcement, compliance, and adjudication data, and (6) accident data. Data collection issues and their implications for data availability are discussed.It is important to note that this report does not evaluate the HOV lane system in the Puget Sound region. Rather, it is a compilation of the data necessary to conduct a meaningful evaluation. Although an analysis of public opinion, transit ridership, enforcement and accident data is provided, the report's primary purpose is to simply present the data and discuss issues associated with its use,-not to provide an extensive analysis.

Authors:
Brown,W. W., Jacobson,E. L.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, HOV lane evaluation, traffice observation, HERO, freeway travel times, data

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Abstract:
This report presents and summarizes the baseline data collected in falfillment of the requirements for the Washington State Department of Transportation grant "HOV Lane Evaluation and Monitoring." This report provides the information. necessary to analyze HOV lane performance and elopment. Data collection results and analysis are presented, followed by conclusions and recommendations.The data contained herein were collected during Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III of the high occupancy vehicle lane (HOV) monitoring project (July 1992-June 1997). The data collection methodology is described in the final report, HOV Monitoring and Evaluation Tool". Included in this report are the following primary and secondary measures of HOV lane performance: (1) average vehicl occupancy data, (2) travel time data, (3) public opinion survey results, (4) transit ridership data, (5) enforcement, compliance, and adjudication data, and (6) accident data. Data collection issues and their implications for data availability are discussed.It is important to note that this report does not evaluate the HOV lane system in the Puget Sound region. Rather, it is a compilation of the data necessary to conduct a meaningful evaluation. Although an analysis of public opinion, transit ridership, enforcement and accident data is provided, the report's primary purpose is to simply present the data and discuss issues associated with its use,-not to provide an extensive analysis.

Authors:
Brown,W. W., Jacobson,E. L.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, HOV lane evaluation, traffic observation, data

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Abstract:
The impacts that would result from providing "reserved capacity" for trucks rather than restricting trucks are considered in this study. In the extreme case, trucks would be allowed to travel in a dedicated or exclusive lane. A more moderate approach would be to provide a cooperative dedicated lane in which vehicles such as trucks and buses could share a common lane and yet be separated from general traffic.The study determined the following. Reserved-capacity strategies for trucks would offer (1) nearly $10 million in annual travel time savings for the trucking industry, (2) a savings of about 2.5 minutes per average truck trip (less than 8 percent savings in trip travel time), and (3) almost $30 million in annual travel time savings for single-occupancy vehicles in the Seattle region. The difference in travel times between the reserved-capacity strategy that would add trucks to the existing HOV lanes and the one that would add an exclusive truck lane would be insignificant, providing little justification for the construction of an exclusive truck lane. In all likelihood, the impact of reserved-capacity strategies on safety would be small, depending on the particular reserved capacity strategy. Reserved capacity strategies for trucks would accelerate pavement deterioration in the reserved lanes, but the reduction in the pavement deterioration rates of the general purpose lanes might help to balance future reconstruction costs. Surveys of the general public and subsequent statistical analysis showed considerable resistance to reserved-capacity strategies for trucks. However, this resistance is not unlike that encountered when HOV lanes were first considered.It is the recommendation of this study that the idea of reserved-capacity strategies for trucks continue to be presented to the trucking industry, to the public, and to other impacted agencies for discussion and consideration. The study showed that the adverse impacts of such strategies are easily manageable and there is at least potential for freight-productivity improvements.

Authors:
Trowbridge,A., Nam,D., Mannering,F. L., Carson,J.

Keywords:
agencies, analysis, Annual, buses, construction, corridors, cost, costs, deterioration, exclusive truck lanes, freight, freight mobility, HOV, HOV lanes, impact, impacts, improvement, lanes, pavement, public, reconstruction, research, resistance, safety, seattle, statistical analysis, survey, Surveys, travel, travel time, travel times, truck, trucking, trucks, urban

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Abstract:
This report presents and summarizes the data collected in fulfillment of the requirements for the Washingto State Department of Transportation grant "HOV Lane Evaluation and Monitoring." This report provides the information necessary to analyze HOV lane performance and development. Data collection results and analysis are presented, followed by conclusions and recommendations.The data contained herein were collected during Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III of the high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane monitoring project (July 1992 through June 1996). The data collection methodology is described in the final report, HOV Monitoring and Evaluation Tool". Included in this report are the following primary and secondary measures of HOV lane performance: (1) average vehicle occupancy data, (2) travel time data, (3) public opinions survey results, and (4) enforcement, compliance, and adjudication data. Data collection issues and their implications for data availability are discussed.It is important to note that this report does not evaluate the HOV lane system in the Puget Sound region. Rather, it is a compilation of the data necessary to conduct a meaningful evaluation. Although analysis of public opinion data and enforcement data is provided, the report's primary purpose is to simply present the data and discuss issues associated with its use, not to provide an extensive analysis.

Authors:
Brown,W. W., Jacobson,E. L.

Keywords:
data, high occupancy vehicle, HOV, HOV lane evaluation, traffic observation

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Abstract:
Transformation Systems, Inc. was hired to perform automated video-based travel time surveys for the high occupancy vehicle (HOV) and the adjacent general purpose (GP) traffic lane on two freeway corridors in the Seattle area. The purpose of the project was to demonstrate and test the use of machine-vision technology for travel time data collection. Evaluating techniques for determining travel times and speeds is necessary for the WSDOT to determine whether its HOV lane performance criteria are being met. The project used hi-8 video cameras to collect very-high quality video tapes of vehicle license plates. The video tapes were then processed at Computer Recognition Systems, Inc. in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with a specialized computer programmed to convert the video images into computer data files. The report details the video survey methodology; the data acquired through license plate recognition, including date, time, location, and direction of travel; and the comparison data used to determine respective travel times for HOV and GP traffic lanes.The field data were collected from Monday, June 19, 1995, through Thursday, June 22, 1995, for each four-hour morning peak period (6:00m 10:00 AM) on westbound SR 520 and for each four-hour evening peak period (3:00-7:00 PM) on northbound Im5. In all, over 90,000 license plates were analyzed, representing approximately 75 percent of the traffic volume. The license plate data were used to "match" vehicles between camera stations and to compute travel times on more than 200 vehicles per hour in high volume traffic conditions.Results on northbound 1-5 indicate that the evening peak period commute away from downtown Seattle in the GP lane can be 2.0 to 2.7 times longer than the same commute using the HOV facilities for the 5.75 kilometers (157 miles) of freeway monitored (between NE 117th and NE 185th Street). Results averaged over the four weekdays for the entire four-hour evening period indicate approximately 60 percent longer commute times in the GP lanes compared to HOV lanes (the 1-5 inside HOV lane has a two-person minimum occupancy requirement).Similar results on westbound SR 520 could not be statistically verified for the morning peak period because of the relatively low number of vehicles observed during the survey period (transit buses were not counted and the SR 520 outside HOV lane has a three-person minimum occupancy requirement). However, there was evidence of approximately 50 percent longer commute times in the GP traffic lanes between 7:30-8:00 AM than the vehicles observed in the HOV lane on SR 520 for the 1.75 kilometers (1.09 miles) of freeway monitored (between 92nd Ave. NE and 76th Ave. NE).

Authors:
Woodson,J. B., Shuldiner,P. W., D'Agostino,S. W.

Keywords:
travel times, HOV, high occupancy vehicle, GP lanes, video, license plates, machine vision, commute times

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Abstract:
While several authorities have assembled comprehensive general resources on the design and operation of HOV facilities at large, none has yet done this from the perspective of transit. The lack of transit-specific research has left unanswered questions such as "What are transit's interests, and how are they best served in HOV facility design and operations?" In addressing these questions, the authors of this report have brought together many pieces of available transit-related HOV research into a single document. The report covers technical aspects of HOV design and operations by dividing the domain into two components: freeways and arterials. Part One, "Arterial HOV Treatments", begins with descriptions of arterial HOV lane types: concurrent flow, contraflow, and median lanes; transit malls, bus streets, and shoulder converstion. Operating characteristics of arterial HOV lanes, including queue bypasses , signalization, and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) advances, are explored. The physical characteristics of arterial HOV lanes are also discussed, including reference to cross-sections, turning radii, and bus stop design. Part Two, "Freeway HOV Treaments", begins by considering the perspective of those who see the very existence of HOV lanes that are open to both buses and carpools as evidence of erosion of an original commitment to transit. A discussion of occupancy policy as related to operational efficiency follows. The next section, on freeway HOV facility design, covers topics such as retrofitting as opposed to new construction, and basic HOV lane types, and their relative advantages. The issue of inside vs. outside HOV lane location is also discussed. Next, ramp types and designs are described, with reference to concerns such as gradients, clearance, transition lanes, and turning radii. A planning section covers cost-benefit analysis. The report concludes with sections on safety, enforcement, and the role of traffic management centers.

Authors:
Rutherford,G. S., MacLachlan,S., Semple,K.

Keywords:
HOV, high occupancy vehicle facilities and operations, transit, arterial, freeway, ramps

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Abstract:
New approaches must be taken to make high occupancy vehicle (HOV) commuting more attractive. One approach is to use innovative communication technology to provide commuters with the means to easily and flexibly arrange for HOV commuting to and from their downtown office buildings. The goal of the study was to design and test an information system that would help decrease single-occupancy vehicle (SOV) travel to a downtown employment center by making alternative commuting options more attractive and easier to access. The project team accomplished this goal by developing, implementing, demonstrating, and testing a traveler information center (TIC) prototype in downtown Bellevue, Washington. The main function of the Bellevue Smart Traveler (BST) TIC was to help commuters form dynamic rideshare groups, as well as to provide traffic congestion and transit information. The TIC integrated phone and paging technology to deliver three types of personal commuter information: (1) dynamic ride matching information, (2) current traffic congestion information, and (3) transit information. The usage patterns and various surveys that were conducted suggested that participants liked the idea of dynamic ridesharing, liked the presentation of the information, liked the technology, were willing to offer rides, and used BST to receive other forms of information. However, for various reasons they were either unable or unwilling to form ride matches.

Authors:
Haselkorn,M., Spyridakis,J., Blumenthal,C., Michalak,S., Goble,B., Garner,M.

Keywords:
traveler information center, ridesharing, ride matching, HOV, high occupancy vehicle

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Abstract:
This report presents and summarizes the baseline data collected in fulfillment of the requirements for the Washington State Department of Transportation grant "HOV Lane Evaluation and Monitoring." This report provides the information necessary to analyze HOW lane performance and development. Data collection results and analysis are presented, followed by conclusions and recommendations.The data contained herein were collected during Phase I and Phase II of the high occupance vehicle lane (HOV) monitoring project (July 1992-June 1995). The data collection methodology is described in the final report, HOV Monitoring and Evaluation Tool. Included in this report are the following primary and secondary measures of HOV lane performance: (1) average vehicle occupancy data, (2) travel time data, (3) public opinion survey results, (4) transit ridership data, (5) enforcement, compliance, and adjudication data, and (7) accident data. Data collection issues and their implications for data availability are discussed.It is important to note that this report does not evaluate the HOV lane system in the Puget Sound region. Rather, it is a compilation of the data necessary to conduct a meaningful evaluation. Although an analysis of public opinion, transit ridership, enforcement and accident data is provided, the report's primary purpose is to simply present the data and discuss issues associated with its use--not to provide an extensive analysis.

Authors:
Etchart,G., Brown,W. W., Jacobson,E. L., Benuska,M., Hansen,M., Ulberg,C.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, HOV lane evaluation, traffic observation

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Abstract:
This report presents and summarizes the baseline data collected in fulfillment of the requirements for the Washington State Department of Transportation grant "HOV Lane Evaluation and Monitoring." This report provides the information necessary to analyze HOV lane performance and development. Data collection results and analysis are presented, followed by conclusions and recommendations.The data contained herein were collected during the first year of the high occupancy vehicle lane (HOV) monitoring project (July 1992-June 1993). The data collection methodology is described in the final report, HOV Monitoring and Evaluation Tool. Included in this report are the following primary and secondary measures of HOV lane performance: (1) average vehicle occupancy data, (2) travel time data, (3) public opinion survey results, (4) transit ridership data, (5) enforcement, compliance, and adjudication data, and (7) accident data. Data collection issues and their implications for data availability are discussed.It is important to note that this report does not evaluate the HOV lane system in the Puget Sound region. Rather, it is a compilation of the data necessary to conduct a meaningful evaluation. Although an analysis of public opinion, transit ridership, enforcement and accident data is provided, the report's primary purpose is to simply present the data and discuss issues associated with its use, not to provide an extensive analysis.

Authors:
Benuska,M., Hansen,M., Ulberg,C.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, HOV lane evaluation, traffic observation

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Abstract:
This study evaluated various high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane enforcement techniques on a recently constructed section of HOV lanes along I-405 in the Seattle, Washington, area. The research included a related public opinion survey concerning HOV lanes. The enforcement techniques that were evaluated included intensive (or continuous saturation) enforcement, once a week saturation enforcement, and once a week stationary enforcement. This study concluded that each type of enforcement effort helped in lowering the number of HOV lane violations; however, it was not possible to determine which method was most effective. Violations decreased considerably during the first weeks of enforcement, regardless of the type of enforcement. The public opinion survey indicated that, in general, the public supports the concept of HOV lanes. Eighty-six percent of the respondents felt that HOV lanes are a good ides. At the same time, 55 percent indicated that existing HOV lanes were not being used enough. Almost 60 percent of the respondents believed HOV lane violators were seldom caught by enforcement agencies. A higher percentage of the respondents (71 percent) believed that HOV violations increased when the Washington State Patrol was not visible along the HOV lane. The research team recommends intensive enforcement only for the first three months (or less) of the operation of a new HOV facility. After that point, the level of effort should revert to routine enforcement. This study also makes recommendations concerning the design of HOV lanes as it is relates to enforcement issues. Specifically, enforcement areas alongside HOV lanes must be designed in cooperation with the appropriate enforcement agency. Two types of enforcement areas along freeways are suggested.

Authors:
Ulberg,C., Jacobson,E. L.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, HOV, high occupancy vehicle, enforcement, public opinion, HOV enforcement, HOV lane design

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Abstract:
See 65-0951 for description. This was a joint effort with TransNow.

Authors:
Ulberg,C.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, mode choice, HOV, TDM

Abstract:
This paper will discuss the problems that are inherent with adding a higher speed HOV lane to an arterial with its unlimited access points. Investigation of current literature will show that although freeway HOV applications have been researched and understood to an adequate degree, almost no data of any kind is available to predict the effectiveness of an arterial HOV project. Further, it will be proposed that not only does the research not exist, but that the 'measures of effectiveness' to evaluate existing arterial HOV lanes are severely lacking. In addition to the literature search, a motorist survey was handed out to collect data describing commute trip behavior. Questions about trip origin, destination, and purpose were asked to determine what residential and commercial zones were being served by N.E. 85th/Redmond Way, and for what purpose. The questionnaire also requested information on the duration of the trip and the occupancy of the vehicle. This data was used as input for a mathematical model to predict the volumes on the facility one year after the implementation of an HOV lane. The fact that the model was based on past freeway applications across the nation, and the threats to validity that causes, will also be presented. The final questions on the survey concerned the motorists' own prediction about how likely they were to carpool and what they thought were some of the problems preventing them. These views will be compared with the results from the model. The predictions and resulting effectiveness of the project will be evaluated versus the stated objectives of the Eastside Transportation Program (ETP) policy statement.

Authors:
Nihan,N. L., Rubstello,L. O.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, arterial HOV, HOV, high occupancy vehicle

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Abstract:
The primary objectives for this study were to investigate state-of-the-art techniques for providing HOV incentives on arterial routes.The primary goal of making HOV improvements has been to increase the efficiency of transportation systems. Secondary objectives have been to reduce energy consumption, improve air quality, increase modal shift, save travel time, and reduce congestions. Reviews of existing facilities have synthesized operational results into useful generalizations. HOV facility issues include safety, enforcement, planning/design guidelines, classification schemes, and performance measures. Arterial HOV improvements have had mixed success, though the lack of good before-and-after studies is significant. HOV facilities have been studied with a variety of computer models. In system analysis, HOV lanes may be better justified as people movers when they are compared with other fixed-transit alternatives than when they are compared with automobile traffic in adjacent, nonrestricted lanes.During the coming decade the HOV system will continue to expand. This project has an opprotunity to contribute significantly to the understanding of the techniques and potentials for arterial HOV improvements. The first step, a review of the existing literature, establishes a basis for the research to follow.

Authors:
Nihan,N. L., Davis,J. E.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, arterial HOV, HOV, high occupancy vehicle

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Abstract:
The main research objective of this study is to improve the limitations on arterial traffic simulation models TRAF-NETSIM and TRANSYT-7F so that they can be used to overcome the above HOV lane planing deficiencies. For instance, after integrating the improved traffic operation models, the evaluation methods can be more adequate for consideration of complex variables associated with arterial HOV lanes. The traffic impacts of HOV lanes can be analyzed from these improved traffic models; therefore, the relationship between traffic impacts and mode shift behavior can be modeled more accurately. Finally, the guidelines to install a successful HOV lane can be derived according to the results of HOV lane evaluation. In brief, the objectives of this study are to: 1. Modify the logic of TRAF-NETSIM turning movements for simulating arterial HOV lanes realistically. 2. Modify the calculation algorithms of TRAF-NETSIM link statistics to provide the travel time of each vehicle type for HOV lane evaluation. 3. Develop the smoothing factor analytical method for TRANSYT traffic platoon dispersion model so that this model can be enhanced and applied appropriately in mixed-flow and priority lane traffic analysis. 4. Develop two iteration algorithms for TRANSYT traffic platoon prediction so that this model can simulate congested flow accurately. The scope of this study is limited to focus on the planning process of arterial concurrent flow HOV lanes using traffic simulation models TRAF-NETSIM and TRANSYT-7F.

Authors:
Nihan,N. L., Chen,H.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, arterial HOV, HOV, high occupancy vehicle

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Abstract:
This report presents an analysis of HOV Improvements for two signalized arterials in the Seattle metropolitan area. The first involves a planned 1,000 foot queue jumper lane on NE Pacific Street in the University District of Seattle. This planned improvement was studied prior to its implementation in Spring of 1990. As part of the study, an extensive before-data set was developed. The planned improvement is now in place,and an extensive after-study is now in progress as part of a follow-up project. The second study was more of a feasibility analysis of possible HOV improvements for a suburban arterial. Specifically, NE 85th/Redmond Way, an arterial that stretches 2.5 miles, from Interstate 405 in Kirkland to Willows Road in Redmond, was identified as one of the highest priority candidates for arterial HOV improvements. Because of limited arterial HOV experience in Seattle and nationwide, the study of these two very different types of HOV arterial improvements provided important information for future arterial plans. This project investigated HOV improvements for arterials in the Seattle area, simulated the operation of those improvements for the two case studies, developed a data set for evaluating the impacts of the improvements, and carried out some preliminary evaluations. The preliminary findings of these two case studies suggested favorable outcomes for the planned HOV improvements. Keeping in mind that these analyses must be evaluated in the context of the surrounding network, the results of these two case studies are optimistic.

Authors:
Nihan,N. L.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, arterial HOV, HOV, high occupancy vehicle

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Abstract:


Authors:
Ulberg,C., Farnsworth,G., Etchart,G., Turnbull,K. F., Henk,R. H., Schrank,D. L.

Keywords:
HOV, I-5, high occupancy vehicle

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Abstract:
On July 29, 1992, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) initiated a six-month demonstration project lowering the minimum vehicle occupancy requirement on the I-5 North HOV lanes from 3 or more persons per vehicle (3+) to 2 or more persons per vehicle (2+). The demonstration was undertaken to determine the impacts of reducing the occupancy requirement from 3+ to 2+ on the operation of the HOV lanes and the freeway general-purpose lanes. An evaluation program, conducted by the University of Washington and the Texas Transportation Institute under contract to the Washington State Department of Transportation, was undertaken to examine these impacts. The results of the evaluation are contained in this report, with the major elements summarized in this section.The WSDOT freeway HOV system objectives and measures of effectiveness were used as guidelines in the evaluation of the reduction in the I-5 North HOV lane vehicle occupancy requirement. The WSDOT objectives for the freeway HOV system include improving the capability of congested freeway corridors to move more people by increasing the number of persons per vehicle, providing travel time savings and a more reliable trip time to high-occupancy vehicles utilizing the facility, and providing safe travel options for high-occupancy vehicles which does not unduly impact the safety of the freeway general-purpose mainlanes. The five measures of effectiveness identified by WSDOT to determine if these objectives are being met include person throughput, vehicle occupancy levels, comparative and absolute general-purpose and HOV lane travel times, travel time reliability and accident rates. Further, WSDOT has identified public support and public acceptance as critical to the success of the freeway HOV system.

Authors:
Ulberg,C., Farnsworth,G., Etchart,G., Turnbull,K. F., Henk,R. H., Schrank,D. L.

Keywords:
high occupancy vehicle, HOV, HOV lane evaluation, traffic observation

Abstract:
This final report describes the key findings of a Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) project. The research was undertaken during the 1988-1989 time period using mainframe computer versions of the programs. Using Corridor Flow (CORFLO), the investigators modeled the traffic impacts on local and regional roadways that would be caused by the reconstruction of 1-405 through the City of Renton, Washington, which is in the Seattle metropolitan area. Using Freeway Simulation (FRESIM), the investigators also modeled 1-405 on the northeast side of Renton, where the high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane, when completed, will transition from the inside to the outside of the freeway (across general purpose traffic).Traffic volume data, traffic signal parameters, and roadway geometric data were obtained and used as needed in each of the computer traffic modeling programs.The CORFLO model could not be adequately calibrated to represent existing traffic flow. The researchers could not determine whether the difficulties in calibrating the model were related to weaknesses in the model itself or to weaknesses in the input data. Use of the CORFLO mainframe computer program for construction traffic simulation by WSDOT is not recommended at this time. The program requires extensive, detailed data, which is usually unavailable and too costly to acquire given the resources normally available for this type of project. Modifying the CORFLO program to run on personal computers is suggested, and was released by McTrans in September 1992.While the FRESIM model appeared to be able to handle the proposed HOV lane crossover, this could not be verified because the FRESIM output was so complex that it was unreadable. A graphic display of the FRESIM output as a supplement to the existing tabular output is recommended.

Authors:
Hallenbeck,M. E., Chang,J., Jacobson,L. N.

Keywords:
computer traffic simulation model, TRAF, CORFLO, FRESIM, HOV, high occupancy vehicle

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Abstract:
The Washington State Department of Transportation is conducting experimental field evaluations of selected polymer concrete thin (1/4 inch) overlays. The polymer concrete material is manufactured by private industry firms and installed on selected bridge decks under standard WSDOT construction contracts. Approximately 24 bridges will be involved in the experiment; eight of these are included in federal participating construction projects as experimental features.A polymer concrete thin overlay, The Conkryl Broadcast System (methlmethacrylate), was applied to the deck of the South 154th Street Overcrossing, Bridge No. 5/523, under Contract No. 3354, SR 405 Tukwila to South Renton HOV Lanes. This bridge is a prestressed girder bridge located on the mainline I-5 at the intersection with I-405 in Seattle, Washington.

Authors:
Roper,T. H., Henley,E. H. Jr

Keywords:
bridge, bridge deck, bridge deck repairs, bridge decks, bridges, concrete, construction, contracts, Deck, evaluation, experimental, HOV, HOV lanes, lanes, overlay, overlays, polymer, polymer concrete, prestressed, project, seattle, thin overlay, transportation, Washington, Washington state, WSDOT

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Abstract:
The primary objectives for this study were (1) to investigate state-of-the-art techniques for providing HOV incentives on arterial routes, and (2) to generate ideas for HOV improvements applicable to urban corridors. This study was part of a research project entitled HOV Improvements on Signalized Arterials, currently under way at the University of Washington, which addresses the problem of HOV improvements on arterials in the Seattle area. The primary goal of making HOV improvements has been to increase the efficiency of transportation systems. Secondary objectives have been to reduce energy consumption, improve air quality, increase modal shift, save time travel, and reduce congestion. Reviews of existing facilities have synthesized operational results into useful generalizations. HOV facility issues include safety, enforcement, planning/design guidelines, classification schemes, and performance measures. Arterial HOV improvements have had mixed success, though lack of good before-and-after studies is significant. HOV facilities have been studied with a variety of computer models. In systems analysis, HOV lanes may be better justified as people movers when they are compared with other fixed-transit alternatives than when they are compared with automobile traffic in adjacent, non-restricted lanes.

Authors:
Nihan,N. L., Davis,J. E.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, arterial HOV, HOV, high occupancy vehicle

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Abstract:
This report discusses the development of recommended and alternative systems for monitoring the use of HOV lanes and compliance with HOV occupancy regulations in the Seattle Metropolitan area. The report includes a state-of-the art review of techniques for monitoring HOV lane use and the results of tests of the most promising of these techniques. In addition, the report presents a review of the existing HERO (HOV violation reporting hotline) program, including the results of a 500 person telephone survey on the public's awareness of and attitude toward HERO program and HOV facilities in general. Finally, the report describes software written to ease the storage of HERO data and improve the reporting of HERO statistics.

Authors:
Kinchen,R. K., Jacobson,L. N., Rutherford,G. S., Hallenbeck,M. E., O'Brien,A.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, HOV, HOV lanes, HOV compliance, HOV violations, traffic data

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Abstract:
This report discusses the development of recommended and alternative systems for monitoring the use of HOV lanes and compliance with HOV occupancy regulations in the Seattle Metropolitan area. The report includes a state-of-the art review of techniques for monitoring HOV lane use and the results of tests of the most promising of these techniques. In addition, the report presents a review of the existing HERO (HOV violation reporting hotline) program, including the results of a 500 person telephone survey on the public's awareness of and attitude toward HERO program and HOV facilities in general. Finally, the report describes software written to ease the storage of HERO data and improve the reporting of HERO statistics.

Authors:
Kinchen,R. K., Hallenbeck,M. E., Rutherford,G. S., Jacobson,L. N., O'Brien,A.

Keywords:
traffic surveillance and control, HOV, HOV lanes, HOV compliance, HOV violations, traffic data

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