Prohibiting Left-Turn Movements at Mid-Block Unsignalized Driveways: Simulation Analysis

Abstract

In recent years, there has been major interest in “access management” as a new response to the ubiquitous traffic congestion problem. Among the different access management strategies is the idea of prohibiting left-turn movements at unsignalized driveways. In this study, the Corridor Simulation traffic simulation model was used to evaluate the operational impacts of different left-turn treatments at mid-block intersections on different classes of roadway facilities. The study also examined the impact of varying the arterial and driveway volume on the effectiveness of restricting direct left turns and providing alternative movements. Three different alternatives were considered for left-turn treatments at mid-block unsignalized intersections: (1) no restriction of direct left turns from or to driveways; (2) no direct left turns in or out of driveways and diverted traffic makes a U-turn at the next intersections; and (3) no direct left turns in or out of driveways and diverted traffic makes a U-turn at mid-...