The MnDOT Metro District Microsimulation Experience

1
The MnDOT Metro District Microsimulation
Experience

• Kevin Sommers, PE
• Minnesota Department of Transportation
• Kevin.Sommers_at_DOT.state.mn.us
• 651-234-7844

2
In the Beginning.

• Models were developed according to user
  preferences.
• Several items considered optional including model
  calibration.
• Typical model was 1 time period of 60 minutes
  without origin-destination data.
• Reported values based on a single run of model.

3
CORSIM Training Manual

• Developed By Mn/DOT FHWA to
• Clarify modeling process.
• Produce reusable and verifiable products.
• Meet Federal operational analysis requirements
  for the Interstate Access Request.

4
CORSIM Training Manual

• Lists 21 items to be followed on all modeling
  projects.
• Categories
• Model Requirements
• Data Requirements
• Calibration Requirements
• Quality Control Requirements

5
CORSIM Training Manual

• Lists 11 required deliverables.
• The most critical are
• Link-Node Diagrams.
• Lane Schematics.
• QA/QC Sheets.
• O-D Matrixes.
• Balanced Traffic Demand Dataset.
• MOE Tables.

6
The Freeway Lane Schematic

• Graphical representation of freeway made modeling
  results easier to understand.
• Color is used to highlight congested sections.

7
Design Selection

• Typically several designs developed for a freeway
  corridor.
• 2, 3, or 4 design options are tested using
  microsimulation to determine best option.
• Design Options
• TH 610 at I-94
• Partial Build vs. Full Build
• TH 169 at I-494
• Ring Road System (3 designs)

8
Design Selection

• Interchange Type
• I-494 at Lyndale Ave.
• Single Point vs. Tight Diamond
• Traffic Control
• TH 610 at Zachary Lane
• Signals vs. Roundabouts
• Collector-Distributor Roads
• I-35E at CSAH 14
• Connect SB entry ramps to CD Road or Interstate

9
Tweaking the Design

• Sometimes the accepted design needs a little
  help.
• Auxiliary Lanes
• I-35 at CSAH 70
• Auxiliary Lane Between CSAH 70 and CSAH 60
• Turn Bays
• TH 62 at I-494
• Dual Left vs. Triple Left

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Freeways Modeled To Date

• 210 miles of freeway modeled including
• 40 miles of I-35W
• 31 miles of I-494
• 28 miles of I-94
• 16 miles of I-694
• 14 miles of I-35E
• 10 miles of I-35
• 10 miles of I-394

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Modeling Website

• Advanced CORSIM Manual
• Freeway Modeling Workshop Presentations
• Modeling Resource Materials
• FHWA Traffic Analysis Toolbox
• Link to MnDOT Data Extraction Tools
• Link to MnDOT Turning Movement Information

http//www.dot.state.mn.us/trafficeng/modeling/ind
ex.html
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Thank You