Knowledge Resources

A Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) study revealed the impacts of shutting down an extensive ramp metering system on Minneapolis-St. Paul area freeways for a 6-week evaluation period. The study analyzed data collected from four test corridors chosen to represent typical freeway configurations and conditions across the region. The study collected a variety of data using several data collection techniques, including probe vehicles operated during peak periods, traffic volume counts from existing traffic detectors and temporary installations, crash statistics, and traveler surveys.

FINDINGS

Analysis of the benefits and costs of the ramp metering system showed that when the costs of the entire congestion management system (including changeable message signs, traveler information, and other components) are factored in, the benefit/cost ratio for ramp metering was 5:1. When ramp meter benefits were compared to only those costs directly associated with ramp metering, the benefit/cost ratio was 15:1.

Notes

See Also:
Evaluation of Ramp Meter Control Effectiveness in Two Twin Cities Freeways, TRB 2002

Mn/DOT Ramp Meter Evaluation: Phase II Report