Investigation of the Impact of Intersection Designs, Signalization, and Directions of Intersection Arms on Microscopic Networks: The Case of Erzurum Province

Zirek, Zühal; Çolak, Muhammed Ali · 2025 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.16984/saufenbilder.1618926

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Summary

This study addresses the challenge of traffic congestion and safety in Erzurum Province, Turkey, by evaluating the impact of intersection design, signalization, and traffic flow directions on microscopic traffic networks. Motivated by rapid socio-economic development and increasing vehicle proliferation, the research focuses on two specific locations: the Gürcükapı and Taşhan intersections. The authors aim to determine optimal geometric and operational configurations that reduce delays, improve traffic flow, and minimize environmental emissions. The methodology employed microscopic traffic simulation using Aimsun software. The researchers first conducted field observations, including traffic counts during peak hours on weekdays and weekends, and surveyed 40 local business owners to assess stakeholder preferences regarding potential changes to traffic directions. Based on these inputs, five scenarios were modeled: the current status and four alternatives involving changes to lane widths, island radii, signalization systems, and the direction of intersection arms. The scenarios were evaluated using performance metrics such as travel time, delay time, waiting time, speed, queue length, and instantaneous emissions of CO2, NOx, Particulate Matter (PM), and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). The results indicated that the most effective scenario was one where the Gürcükapı and Taşhan intersections were modernized with improved geometric designs—specifically increasing the island radius at Gürcükapı to 30 meters and introducing teardrop-shaped islands at Taşhan—but without the addition of a signalization system, while maintaining the current direction of traffic arms. This configuration outperformed scenarios that included signalization or reversed traffic directions. The study found that geometric improvements alone, when aligned with existing traffic flow patterns, provided the best balance of efficiency and reduced congestion. The significance of this research lies in its demonstration that intersection optimization does not always require complex signalization or drastic changes to traffic flow directions. Instead, careful geometric redesign, such as adjusting island sizes and lane configurations, can significantly enhance traffic performance and sustainability. The findings provide actionable insights for urban planners in Erzurum and similar cities, highlighting the importance of integrating local stakeholder feedback and detailed microsimulation in transportation infrastructure planning.

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• intersection design