ATAC Traffic Simulation System Aids $17 Million Project

The Advanced Traffic Analysis Center's continuous support to the North Dakota Department of Transportation and the city of Fargo will be evident this summer. ATAC is analyzing the impact for an eight-mile I-29 construction project through the metropolitan area. In the summer of 2001, 3.7 miles of the highway are scheduled for reconstruction in the multi-year project costing $17 million. The complex project includes lane expansion, adding underpasses and rebuilding an overpass. Using traffic simulation, ATAC is evaluating traffic operations through the construction area, as well as the detour routes in the metropolitan area.

This highway Reconstruction covers the busiest stretch of highway in North Dakota. Tens of thousands of motorists and businesses will be affected. Last summer ATAC researchers gathered field data using the Traffic Data Collection System (TDCS) at several locations in the I-29 corridor. The TDCS is a mobile unit developed by ATAC staff. It consists of two video cameras with pan/tilt devices mounted on a 42-foot telescopic mast, video detection equipment and other computer equipment. The system allowed ATAC to analyze traffic volume, speed and driver behavior. A traffic simulation network was constructed to replicate the entire system, including traffic volume, road geometry and traffic control devices.

Through this research, the NDDOT and city of Fargo will receive valuable information on different diversion routes, traffic control and traveler information strategies. Traveler information is an incredibly important component, according to Shawn Birst, who is a transportation engineer with ATAC. "As travelers are better informed before they enter a construction area, they can make better decisions," he said. "When drivers are informed about alternate routes, there is less potential for congestion and accidents in a construction area."

The traffic analysis by ATAC will also provide the NDDOT with information they need for incentive and disincentive payments to contractors. This summer, ATAC staff will continue gathering data to see how people are using alternate routes and evaluate traffic flow and driver behavior through the corridor.