Evaluating the performance of implementing regionally coordinating bus priority signals under different control schemes

Al-Hyasat, Esra’a; Alhadidi, Taqwa I. · 2024 · Crossref

DOI: 10.1007/s43762-024-00131-3

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Summary

This study addresses the challenge of optimizing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) operations in densely populated urban areas, specifically focusing on the Amman BRT system in Jordan. While Transit Signal Priority (TSP) effectively reduces bus delays, it often inadvertently increases delays for other road users, including pedestrians and private vehicles. The authors propose a Regionally Coordinating Bus Priority Signals Control (RCBPSC) strategy designed to minimize bus delays while simultaneously mitigating negative impacts on multimodal traffic. The research aims to evaluate the performance of this strategy under different control schemes to determine the most effective approach for improving overall network efficiency and sustainability. The methodology involves microscopic simulation using VISSIM software, modeling two consecutive, high-volume intersections along the Amman BRT Route 1: the Jordan University Mosque and Al-Dawreat intersections. These sites were selected due to their heavy pedestrian volumes and critical role in the network. The study compares four scenarios: a base scenario representing current operations, an adaptive traffic signal control scenario, an RCBPSC scenario without signal timing optimization, and an RCBPSC scenario with signal timing optimization. Data collection included geometric characteristics, traffic volumes from loop detectors, and manual pedestrian counts. The simulation model was rigorously validated and calibrated using statistical metrics, including the GEH statistic and Root Mean Square Percent Error (RMSE), ensuring high accuracy in replicating real-world traffic conditions. Evaluation metrics included average control delay, travel time, Level of Service (LOS), maximum queue length, CO emissions, and fuel consumption. The results indicate that the adaptive traffic signal control scenario performed worse than the base scenario in terms of average delay and LOS. In contrast, implementing RCBPSC significantly reduced BRT delays at both intersections. The most effective approach was the RCBPSC scenario with signal timing optimization, which achieved an average reduction of more than 60% in intersection delay compared to the base scenario. This optimized strategy also resulted in a decrease in CO emissions of more than 50% and improved the Level of Service for all system users, including pedestrians and private vehicles. The findings demonstrate that the RCBPSC system is robust and effective in balancing the needs of priority transit with general traffic flow. The significance of this work lies in its contribution to urban traffic management strategies, particularly in developing nations where resource limitations and complex inter-regional coordination pose challenges. By demonstrating that optimized regional coordination can simultaneously reduce bus delays and environmental impacts while improving service for other road users, the study provides actionable insights for transportation agencies. The findings support the implementation of comprehensive, integrated traffic management solutions that enhance urban mobility and sustainability, offering a scalable model for improving BRT operational conditions in congested urban corridors.

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