Document Type

Thesis

Date of Award

3-2025

School/College

College of Science, Engineering, and Technology (COSET)

Degree Name

MS in Transportation Planning & Management

Committee Chairperson

Dr. Yi Qi

Committee Member 1

Dr. Fengxiang Qiao

Committee Member 2

Dr. Mehdi Azimi

Committee Member 3

Dr. David Olowokere

Keywords

Transit Signal Priority, Traffic Demand, Travel Time, PTV VISSIM

Abstract

Transit Signal Priority is an intelligent transportation system strategy introduced to enhance the operational efficiency of public transit. The operations of TSP adjust the existing traffic signal timing plan to give preferential treatment to buses, streetcars, or other transit vehicles. This strategy improves efficiency, reliability, and overall network performance. This research mainly focuses on evaluating TSP performance using the green strategy on Studemont/Studewood Street in Houston, Texas, and the performance is measured based on travel time. Data that includes the existing travel time, turning movement count, bus information, and other essential data were collected to achieve the research objectives. Microscopic simulation for traffic models was developed in VISSIM for the existing conditions and the alternate TSP models. The base model was calibrated to certify that it represents the existing conditions. New signal timing plans were also developed for the alternate TSP models to enhance the traffic progression while arriving at the intersection. This study indicates that when TSP is incorporated, its efficiency helps to improve the capacity of the intersection under heavy traffic conditions. Results obtained from this study further showed that TSP may reduce the travel time of transit buses by 10% and the travel time of all automobiles by 6 - 8%. This is because TSP can improve traffic progression based on the modified signal timing plan, which resonates with traffic demand. Furthermore, the findings of this study show that the effects of TSP are less significant on the traffic performance of the side streets Transit Signal Priority can be an effective design strategy for corridors with high traffic demand and transit operations. Before implementation, it is advised to assess its feasibility carefully based on local traffic conditions, local agency regulations, and engineering judgment. The findings from this study can help transportation professionals evaluate the performance analyses of transit signal priority on road and transit corridors.

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