Effectiveness of Variable Message Signs Using Empirical Loop Detector Data

Abstract

The effectiveness of Variable Messages Signs (VMS) on route guidance is assessed by a discrete probit choice model that estimates the proportion of vehicles that diverts to an alternative routes given the characteristics of different messages. A before–and–after study is also conducted to quantitatively evaluate the network wide reduction of travel time and total delay of VMS systems. We find that VMS has no obvious effect on reduction of travel time, but can reduce the total delay.Route Choice, Diversion Behavior, Cost Benefit Analysis