Evaluation of Continuous Auxiliary Lanes at Cloverleaf Interchanges

Level of Education of Students Involved

Undergraduate

Faculty Sponsor

Jay Grossman

College

Engineering

Discipline(s)

Civil Engineering

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-25-2024

Abstract

This research focuses on the potential redesign of cloverleaf interchanges to enhance safety and efficiency by the addition of auxiliary lanes connecting exit and entrance ramps throughout the limits of interchanges, replacing the existing, discontinuous, exit, weave and entrance areas. Leveraging VISSIM simulation software, this study evaluates the effectiveness of this design modification in mitigating the hazards associated with merging traffic, particularly at the central weave area of the cloverleaf – a recognized weakness of this type of interchange. By extending a new auxiliary lane on the right side of the through lanes in all directions, throughout the limits of the interchange, the redesign aims to provide a dedicated space for vehicles to transition smoothly into and out of the through lanes of the cloverleaf, particularly in the central weaving zone where the additional, continuous lane will allow exiting and entering vehicles a much greater distance in which to decelerate and exit or accelerate up to mainline speed and merge. Through a comparative analysis of traffic performance metrics, including merging delays, queue lengths, and other safety indicators, the study assesses the impact of the extended right turn lane on overall intersection operations.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Carly Schiene is a senior civil engineering major who took an interest in transportation on campus and has been involved in multiple undergraduate research projects for the past three years.

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