ATAC 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.