Phasing

The forecasted traffic volumes were used to evaluate the detailed traffic operations of the recommended J-turn plan. The entire corridor was analyzed using a VISSIM microsimulation model. This tool provides thorough measures of operational performance for each traffic movement as well as a visual representation of conditions that is useful for engaging the public.

Based on the VISSIM analysis of 2045 AM and PM peak hour conditions, a summary of anticipated delays, Levels of Service, and queue lengths was developed as shown in Tables 3-1 and 2 for the a.m. and p.m. peak periods, respectively.

As shown, the proposed J-turn configuration could satisfactorily accommodate the long-term traffic growth anticipated through the study area, while maintaining favorable Levels of Service. It should be noted that J-turns provide flexibility to address any operational issues that may arise at a specific location as traffic volumes grow. Although local residents are not yet familiar with J-turns, once installed in the Evansville area, local drivers would become acclimated to them just as drivers in other communities have adjusted to them.

Specifically, partial signals can be installed to better facilitate mainline left-turn or U-turn movements, wherein only one direction of travel is stopped briefly to create platoons and gaps in the traffic flow. For the purposes of this preliminary analysis, partial signals were assumed at the three southern U-turn intersections. The actual location of any partial signals would be determined during design and implemented as traffic demands require the introduction of additional gaps in opposing traffic flows.