Managed Lanes: A Potential Solution to Roadway Congestion

Urban roadway congestion in cities across the world is increasing and roadway capacity and expansion are not keeping pace. It is the classic case of supply and demand. If revenue to build additional capacity existed, other factors make building new highways difficult. Many agencies are exploring other options to better manage the flow of traffic. In America, a few states have implemented and many states are studying the concept of managed lanes. The definition of managed lanes varies but there are common elements. The lanes have a high degree of operational flexibility, and the management strategies can be categorized into three groups: pricing, vehicle eligibility and access control. This paper examines aspects of each of the operating strategies. Successful practices are documented and gaps in knowledge are identified. The case studies examine the planning and coordination of operating managed lanes projects; how particular operating strategies were analyzed and selected; and how agencies plan for active management of the facilities. Lastly, the paper highlights emerging issues related to managed lanes projects. The issues include performance measures, institutional arrangements, forecasting methodology, enforcement, driver information and signing.