A model is proposed to estimate the work zone queue length, and the cellular
automata based on empirical data is used for model validation. This estimation
model can be applied to work zone organization and management to improve work
zone capacity and security. Relationship between the average queue length and
the warning zone length can be found, and the appropriate warning zone length
can be determined according to design flow. Moreover, the appropriate work zone
lane-changing strategies under different design flows are found through the
estimation model