Advanced Simulation Tools for Freeway Corridor Management

As part of the California PATH program, the Paramics microscopic traffic simulation model was applied to the I-580 freeway-arterial corridor. The main purposes of the project were two-fold:- Develop the expertise and transfer the knowledge required in calibrating a large-scale freeway corridor with Paramics;- Prepare a calibrated model for the I-580 corridor that could be used to address operational questions, evaluate potential improvement alternatives and provide input to the decision-making process.In agreement with Caltrans District 4 and Headquarters, the study focused on the eastbound direction of I-580 (a 25 mile section) during the afternoon peak period of a typical weekday. The freeway network to be simulated included, in addition to the eastbound direction of 580, the westbound direction as well as a segment of I-680 and the portion of SR 84 connecting 580 and 680. The grid network also included a large number of surface streets and a total of more than 100 signalized intersections.