The Effect of Truck Lane Restrictions on Weaving Segments of Freeways

Loop systems are very common in midsized cities; unique features to these roads are short distances between ramps, drivers making short trips, and high ramp volumes. These criteria are not specified in the current policies for truck lane restrictions. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how these variables will impact the feasibility of a truck lane restriction. In this study simulations are performed on multiple combinations of variables. Data for each variable was created using a range of data based around the national averages for that variable. Statistical Analysis was performed on the results of the simulation to observe the effect of each variable. Ramp volume was found to have the most impact on the simulation results, accounting for 51% of the total variability in lane density and average free flow speed. Other variables that had a significant impact were the distance between ramps and the truck percentage. The results of this study recommend that any time ramp volume is minimal then the implementation of a truck lane restriction is feasible. When the ramps are separated more than an HCM classified weaving segment then a truck lane restriction is feasible. However, if ramp volumes are high or ramps are spaced within 2000 ft of each other, then simulations to test the individual scenario are recommended before proceeding with a truck lane restriction. Further research on this subject would include more variables in the analysis such as speed limits or weaving ratios.