Ramp Metering Katie Schueler

Definition of a Ramp Meter A ramp meter regulates the traffic on an entrance ramp to a highway or freeway. There is also another lane, usually marked with a white diamond, designated to carpools, vanpools, and buses.

Ramp Metering Usage When a cars try to merge onto a highway or freeway the cars already there have to slow down to allow them in. Ramps aid in this issue because they regulate traffic flow. Without ramp meters there could easily be more traffic congestion.

Ramp Metering Benefits The average amount of time a driver has to wait on the entrance ramp is less than two minutes. Through research, ramp meters have proven to be an inexpensive response to traffic congestion issues. Ramp meters are regulated by the flow of traffic using a complex computer system which can be easily overridden manually.

Average Arterial Speed

Ramp Travel Time (in sec)

Ramp Metering Tips In order to trigger the ramp meter, pull your vehicle right up to the white line. During a period of traffic congestion, form two lanes to improve traffic flow. To save time for carpools, vanpools and buses, use the separate lane with a white diamond to bypass the meter.

Carpool, Vanpool, Bus Lane

Conclusion Ramp meters are a good idea for most entrance ramps because they regulate traffic flow, decrease backups, and shorten freeway travel times. Ramp meters can also improve merging conditions and provide consistent commute times. Katie Schueler