Development of truck route diversion strategies in response to interstate incidents

Abstract

Roadway closures due to highway incidents are detrimental to the American economy and result in lost time for motorists. Route diversion can help lessen the effects of highway incidents, if the decision is based upon a set of criteria that helps evaluate the impacts of the rerouted traffic. These criteria must meet two conditions: 1) quantifiable and 2) can be evaluated in a time-efficient manner. Based on a review of existing routing methods, criteria were defined according to three key considerations: 1) geometric characteristics, 2) proximity, and 3) capacity. Performance measures for these criteria were determined and applied to the Tennessee interstate highway network by utilizing GIS software to determine incident “hot spots” worthy of rerouting consideration. The application of the criteria led to diversion route selections that minimized travel time, while satisfying truck operational constraints, and maintaining an acceptable level of service (LOS) when additional traffic was assigned to the route. The methodology described in this document can be applied to roadway networks in other locations in order to facilitate diversion decisions. The research presented can also be used as a basis for developing more enhanced tools for making more efficient rerouting decisions while maintaining operational safety.