Research Reports
Report Details
Title: | Application of ITS at Railroad Grade Crossings |
Authors: | Lance Schulz and Ayman Smadi |
Publication Date: | Jul 1998 |
Report #: | DP-123 |
TRID #: | 01701534 |
Keywords: | advanced traveler information systems, automatic vehicle detection and identification systems, case studies, intelligent transportation systems, railroad grade crossings, railroad signals, technological innovations, traffic signals, traffic simulation, urban areas, variable message signs |
Type: | Research Report – Department Publications |
Abstract
This paper investigates the application of advanced detection, traveler information, and advanced signal control systems to reduce congestion and incidents at railroad crossings. The study uses a traffic simulation model, TRAF-CORSIM, to evaluate the most effective scenario using ITS to alleviate railroad crossing problems; the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area was used as a case study. A typical system layout includes a train detection system that triggers a "train present signal phasing" and provides information to motorists, through Variable Message Signs (VMS), to take alternative routes. The results of the simulation indicate significant improvements in traffic conditions under the proposed ITS scenario.