Improvement and Assessment of Bab Al-Hussein signalized intersection in Hilla city

Abstract

Increasing traffic loads at intersections is among the major issues causing traffic difficulties and then leads to traffic jams in the following infrastructures, such as the highways and their crossings are the reflection of civilization across every country. And the scale of the progress throughout the highway quality, number and the traffic facilities in the intersection. The stated objectives of this research are to improve and assess the traffic efficiency of the signalized intersection at Bab Al-Hussein in Hilla City, which matches the current situation and spatial characteristics of the intersection. Traffic volume data have been collected for each approach and every movement (Through, Left, Right and U-turn) within peak hour volume in the (a.m. and p.m.) period for the intersection. Traffic volume classification was according to vehicle's type which they are moving to throw the intersections (passenger car, heavy vehicle, motorcycle) In addition to the volume of the pedestrians. Data were collected by using the technique of video recording method then represent in tables and figures. The program SYNCHRO 8 has been utilized to analyze and assess the intersection and to select the optimum alternative. The assessment process results in application of the intersection with service standard (LOS F). Because of recommendations for various solutions, varying from signal optimisation to geometrical enhancements. The study conducted that, when add one lane in each approaches and minimizing the cycle length to (75) sec, thus the service level will be increase from (F to C) LOS. This result is an economical and acceptable solution to increase intersection performance. It was recommended that U-turn be prevented because it causes traffic delays, and thus the lost time increases. From it the traffic volume increases at the intersection also, preventing heavy vehicles from crossing at peak times and allocating a time from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am with the allocation of a special road to cross them, because it obstructs traffic and the risk of their presence in a busy intersection.