Microsimulation Analysis of a Network of Dual-lane Roundabouts

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Modern roundabouts have become a subject of great interest and attention over the last few years in Canadian cities. Compared to regular signalized intersections, roundabouts have the great potential to reduce vehicular delay and emissions while increasing safety, although these outcomes differ based on the traffic level and turning movement patterns. Most modelling studies focused on benefits from the perspective of traffic within a single lane and isolated roundabout. Little work has been conducted for a network of modern double-lane roundabouts that examines the multi-modal impacts in terms of safety, delay and emissions. As vehicular traffic volume increases, the discomfort (i.e. delays) and safety experienced by pedestrian/cyclists might be further jeopardized. In addition, there is no research comparing the average transit efficiency between the two alternatives to determine the best solution for transit. There is a great need to evaluate modern roundabout designs and operational performance under mixed traffic to facilitate an objective comparison between them and other alternative intersection control strategies. The objective of this study is thus to analyze the operational performance of a multi-lane roundabout design as compared to the signalized intersection for mixed mode traffic using VISSIM and VISWALK micro-simulation models. VISSIM, an advanced micro-simulation tool when used in conjunction with VISWALK model has the capabilities of modelling both motorized and non-motorized modes to acceptable level of detail. By simulating pedestrian/cyclists movement and capturing the interaction with motorized vehicles, it is possible to model the delay and safety experienced by all modes. As a case study, this research will examine the 3 dual-lane modern roundabouts at Crowchild Trail/Flanders Avenue Interchange in Calgary. It is expected that this simulation study which is a low-risk platform for assessing treatments will provide an effective solution to improve delay and safety by offering design recommendation for mix modes.