Implementing Truck-Only Toll Lanes at the State, Regional, and Corridor Levels: Development of a Planning Methodology

Abstract

The growing number of trucks traveling on freeways has caused more traffic congestion and increased the likelihood of truck-related crashes. Many transportation agencies are considering a new concept of truck-only toll (TOT) lanes to provide a more efficient and safer freight transportation system. This research develops a methodology for identifying candidate TOT lanes in the freeway system. The modeling of TOT lanes in different geographic applications includes individual TOT corridors, a regional TOT network, and a statewide TOT network. The criteria employed in a geographic information system (GIS)-based screening process to determine feasible TOT corridors and their boundaries/extents include: freeway level of service, truck volumes, truck percentage of total freeway flow, truck-related crashes, and truckers willingness to pay. The research also presents the process for determining optimum toll rates for TOT lanes. Furthermore, this research addresses issues of assessing the engineering design of TOT lane placement and the performance measures of using either mandatory or voluntary TOT lanes. This research also examines freeway performance under two scenarios -- adding general purpose lanes or building TOT lanes with both mandatory and voluntary use. Finally, this research addresses the strategies for critical issues associated with the planning, design, and operation of TOT lanes and presents TOT planning guidance.