Dynamic Message Sign Deployment and Diversion Behavior of Travelers an Central Florida Toll Roads

    Authors

    H. Al-Deek; Srcc Venkata; J. Flick;A. Khattak

    Comments

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    Abstract

    Advanced traveler information systems are particularly helpful in supporting route diversion decisions. The effect of information on diversion behavior on nontolled roads is well documented in the literature. Revealed and stated preference studies traditionally have been conducted to analyze route diversion behavior. However, the effect of real-time traffic information on the behavior of toll road users is unexplored. This study examines the behavior or toll road users in Orlando, Florida. Orlando is serviced by a toll road network where dynamic message signs (DMSs) provide real-time travel time information to travelers. The response of toll road users to information was expected to differ from that of non-toll users. To capture the effects of information, specifically the DMS, a survey was conducted in two phases: predeployment (with only one DMS installed) and postdeployment (after 29 DMSs were installed). A detailed behavioral data set with rigorous modeling was used to investigate the relationship between information and travel decisions in the context of toll road trips. The surveys revealed that higher travel time savings due to diversion, 511 use, and toll payment by cash were associated with a greater propensity to divert in postdeployment. Travelers who experienced abnormal travel times or who reported that DMS helped them during congestion were more likely to divert. The study further showed that toll road users might have more inertia and avoid leaving the toll road than non-toll road users. Implications of the results are discussed.

    Journal Title

    Transportation Research Record

    Issue/Number

    2129

    Publication Date

    1-1-2009

    Document Type

    Article

    First Page

    24

    Last Page

    34

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000273679600004

    ISSN

    0361-1981

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