EVALUATION OF AT-GRADE INTERSECTION IN URBAN ROADS IN COASTAL CITIES

Abstract

A road intersection is the point where two or more roads meet, allowing their users to exchange paths. Those intersections that are located in urban areas have a large volume of traffic that causes traffic congestion. For this, an optimal design model is proposed through the simulation of the AISUM software, with the objective of obtaining an efficient road circulation service for its users. The proposed methodology is based on the analysis of different indicators that allow the evaluation of the study intersection such as geometric design, vehicular traffic and control points or traffic lights. The process begins with direct observation that identifies the types of vehicles, permitted maneuvers and traffic light synchronization. Subsequently, the speeds and geometric design characteristics must be considered. Finally, a vehicle capacity is applied to know the existing traffic flow, the saturation flow and calculate the average delay in each direction of the intersection, a value obtained to define the level of service. The intersection of Av. Ferroviaria and road E25 obtained a general delay time of 20 sec/veh, classifying it as a “C” service level. In short, it is proposed to improve the synchronization of traffic lights, modifying the cycle duration from 90 seconds to 80 seconds and the application of adequate lane width that will reduce delays and obtain a "B" level of service.