Travel Time Reliability and Truck Level of Service on the Strategic Intermodal System Part A: Travel Time Reliability

Abstract

The goal of the Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) is to provide a transportation system that efficiently serves Florida’s citizens, businesses and visitors; helps Florida become a worldwide economic leader; enhances economic prosperity and competitiveness; enriches quality of life; and reflects responsible environmental stewardship. The SIS is composed of transportation facilities and services of statewide and interregional significance. Much research on the SIS and its users is needed. This initial research effort focused on two areas: travel time reliability and truck level of service. This report (Part A) describes the research conducted on travel time reliability for the SIS. The objective of this research was to develop preliminary models for estimating the travel time reliability on freeway facilities. At the time this research was initiated, there were no data available in the State of Florida suitable for this project. Therefore, the models developed here were based on field data from Philadelphia, PA. The project first reviewed travel time reliability approaches found in the literature, and provided recommendations regarding the use of a travel time reliability definition for this project. Next, it provides an overview of previously developed travel time estimation models, and develops a travel time estimation framework based on the literature review findings. A series of models for estimating travel time reliability along freeway segments is then developed based on data from Philadelphia, PA. The report provides two examples for applying those models and determining the reliability of a highway network. Conclusions and recommendations from the research are provided in the last chapter of the report.