Search Results (3)

The determination of the appropriate traffic signal timing plans for no-notice evacuations in densely populated areas is a noteworthy challenge. The objective of this study was to evaluate alternatives that could optimize evacuee traffic flow in a no-notice evacuation of areas near an oil refinery. This simulation case study focused on a residential area in the City of Wood River, Illinois, and used Synchro 8.0 and VISSIM 7.0. This case study was different from existing evacuation literature because of the high left-turn demand from evacuating traffic. The study methods were unique because of the application of dynamic traffic assignment, a left-turn movement on the evacuation route, and the simulation of fully-actuated traffic signals. These scenarios evaluated the following: (1) existing traffic infrastructure; (2) flexible shelter choice; and (3) optimized traffic signal timing with flexible shelter choice. The results suggested that optimizing the signal timing and allowing drivers’ flexibility in choosing evacuation routes achieved the fastest evacuation. These findings indicated that a longer cycle length and an extended left-turn phase were important factors in reducing traffic delay in the network. Overall, these findings underscore the importance of operating intersections efficiently during no-notice evacuations. Full article

It is important to consider establishing a shelter in place (SIP) using existing facilities to prepare for unpredictable and no-notice disasters. In this study, we evaluate the building-information-modeling (BIM)-based approach to simulate the strategic location of SIP and its strengthening method. BIM software was used to model a light rail station and analyze the elements of the facility that can affect the evacuation time to reach the SIP. The purpose of this study was to understand the effects of structural standards on the design of SIPs using a direct simulation. The differences between domestic and overseas standards were analyzed. An analysis was carried out to evaluate whether national specifications are satisfactory. As the proposed evacuation method is based on a rational human behavior analysis through a direct simulation, it was going to be a safer and faster route of evacuation in the case of physical terror attack situations for existing infrastructure, Furthermore, the SIP design is considered where reinforcement of the SIP structure is necessary. Three types of reinforcing were considered. Here, the use of high-strength, high-ductility concrete proved to be an effective method to improve the impact resistance of reinforced concrete walls and recommended for strengthening reinforced concrete members. Full article

Under no-notice evacuation scenarios with limited time horizons, the effectiveness of evacuation can be negatively impacted by intermediate trips that are made by family members and the identification of vulnerable populations. The emergence of shared-mobility companies, such as Uber and DiDi, can be considered as a potential means to address above-mentioned concerns. The proposed study explores the utility of shared-mobility services under emergency-evacuation scenarios and makes recommendations to relevant bodies that are based on the obtained and they are discussed herein. The study investigates attitudes of the public, experts, and drivers towards the use of shared-mobility resources during emergency evacuations based on a stated preference survey. Results of questionnaires, driver interviews, and face-to-face expert interviews have been analyzed to validate the feasibility and identify potential problems of leveraging shared-mobility services during evacuation response, especially in metropolitan areas wherein such services are already ubiquitous. Numerical simulations have been performed to quantify potential improvements in the total trip distance and number of evacuees after incorporating the use of shared mobility into emergency-response operations. However, despite the observed improvement in emergency efficiency, certain realistic roadblocks must be overcome. Realization of the proposed objective heavily depends on actionable policy recommendations, provided herein as a reference for the government, emergency management agencies, and shared-mobility companies. Full article