Traffic microsimulation of the main junction connecting the urban road network with the sea-port container terminal

Abstract

Efficient transportation connectivity between ports and the hinterland is essential for the functioning of the port, especially for container terminals that predominantly rely on road transport. The integration of port and urban traffic flows, particularly in terminals located near cities, has a double impact on the level of service of urban traffic and the efficiency of the port. This paper examines the effects of a newly built container terminal, with a capacity of less than 1 million TEU per year, on urban traffic in Rijeka, Croatia. A microscopic-level simulation method is used together with traffic network modeling design. The research identifies potential bottlenecks or critical elements in the network with lower performance for the current traffic demand and the future growth scenarios of the container traffic. The study’s findings contribute to understanding the dynamic characteristics of port and urban traffic flow correlation, crucial for efficient transportation management and sustainable urban development in port cities.