Assessing the influence of bike lane allocation on network traffic performance using microsimulation

Abstract

To foster a sustainable urban transport system, allocating road space to slow modes, e.g., bicycles, pedelecs, scooters, and cargo-bikes, etc., is considered an effective strategy to reduce car usage. However, the concern of car traffic congestion caused by the reduced capacity available for drivers hinders the policy-making process toward a cycling-friendly environment. In this work, we first assess the impact of a large-scale bike lane allocation plan on network traffic performance for the city of Zurich using a microscopic traffic simulation approach. The traffic signal control scheme for such a bi-modal network with heavy car and bicycle traffic volumes is discussed and implemented. In addition, through simulating different scenarios, we showcase the required modal shift that can prevent the network from severe traffic breakdown. By investigating the bi-modal traffic performance and their interaction in such a network, the analyzed outcomes also facilitate the development of macroscopic traffic flow models which can be applied to bi-modal urban traffic management strategies, such as perimeter control and route guidance.