Modeling Hurricane Evacuation Traffic: A Mobile Real-Time Traffic Counter for Monitoring Hurricane Evacuation Traffic Conditions
Sherif Ishak, Ciprian Alecsandru, Yan Zhang, Dan P. K. Seedah · 2006
In this research report, an investigation was conducted to identify a suitable traffic monitoring device for collecting traffic data during actual emergency evacuation conditions that may result from hurricanes in Louisiana. The study reviewed thoroughly the technical features and capabilities of a set of state-of-the-art traffic monitoring devices produced by different manufacturers. The selection criteria included cost, degree of mobility, ease of installation and calibration, resilience to adverse weather conditions, and real-time communication options. The comparative evaluation showed that the Remote Traffic Microwave Sensor (RTMS) meets all selection criteria when combined with a trailer for mobility and a cellular modem for real-time wireless communication. The mobile RTMS system was acquired and assembled at the Louisiana Transportation Research Center (LTRC) facility to collect traffic measurements in future hurricane-related studies.