MPC
Research Projects (2000-01)

Identifying Number

MPC-209

Project Title

Advanced Traffic Management System Evaluation Data Collection Methodology

University

University of Utah

Project Investigator

Dr. Peter Martin
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah
(801)581-7144
martin@civil.utah.edu

External Project Contact

N/A

Project Objective

The primary objective of this research will be to review the ATMS deployments worthy of detailed future evaluation; establish a set of Measures of Effectiveness; and determine sample size requirements for statistical significance.

Project Abstract

Sophisticated micro simulation models, such as MITSIM, INTEGRATION and WATSIM are useful tools to test the potential impact of new ITS technologies, such as route diversion variable message signs, in-vehicle driver alarms, and weather sensitive speed advisory signs. Once implemented, the modeling should be tested with field observations. Rigorous experimental design demands that both pre- and post-date will be available. Frequently, the "pre data" is overlooked. Subsequent evaluations are weakened.

Task Descriptions

• Task 1 – Review the ATMS deployments for future evaluation
• Task 2 – Establish a set of Measures of Effectiveness
• Task 3 – Lay down Null and Alternative Hypotheses
• Task 4 – Development Experimental Design
• Task 5 – Present sample evaluation methods

Milestones, Dates

• Starting Date: July 1, 2000
• Project Milestones:
• Ending Date: June 30, 2001

Yearly and Total Budget

Federal $22,182
State $36,600

Student Involvement

Two graduate students; one thesis.

Relationship to Other Research Projects

This research will promote the development of ITS deployments through the provision of a rigorous pre-evaluation in formation capture methodology. Once implemented, it will enable policy makers to reach more cost effective decisions thereby promoting the expansion of valuable technologies as well as abandoning those that evaluate poorly.

Technology Transfer Activities

N/A

Potential Benefits of the Project

The research will provide a detailed report explaining the most applicable measures of effectiveness, a detailed case study of a virgin (pre ITS) site data collection plan. The project will be concluded with a "hands-on" workshop to enable public service engineers to manipulate and control sample spaces and data sets.

TRB Keywords

Traffic monitoring, intelligent transportation systems, transportation system evaluation, advanced traffic management systems