Integrating an Agent-Based Travel Behavior Model with Large-Scale Microscopic Traffic Simulation for Corridor-Level and Subarea Transportation Operations and Planning Applications

Abstract

Application of microscopic traffic simulation beyond the corridor level analysis is not widely seen in literature. This is partly because of the fact that a simulation model cannot capture behavior responses such as peak spreading. This study develops a framework that integrates agent-based travel behavior models with large-scale traffic simulation to capture the regional impacts of new development. The proposed model is then applied to the I-270/I-495/I-95 corridor in the north Washington, DC metropolitan area in a case study. Findings from this study reveal the potential of the proposed model to capture network dynamics and behavioral reactions. This framework also provides a valuable tool for the evaluation of new transportation infrastructure, such as the intercounty connector (ICC) corridor currently under con- struction, and its operation strategies. DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)UP.1943-5444.0000139. © 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers. CE Database subject headings: Traffic management; Simulation; Traffic models; Travel patterns. Author keywords: Traffic simulation; Agent-based model; Departure time choice; Intercounty connector.