Analysis of traffic congestion for the improvement of a main road in Guayaquil-Ecuador

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.21905.04960

Keywords:

traffic congestion, vehicular traffic control, traffic signs

Abstract

In Guayaquil-Ecuador, Av. Pedro Menéndez Gilbert is a main road with a designed capacity of 9000 vehicles/h, currently presenting traffic congestion problems, which affects its users. In order to propose possible solutions to the mobility problem, the research carried out aimed to analyze alternatives that would improve the level of service. The data collection method consisted of observation, with fieldwork at the entrance and exit intersections of a 900-m-long section. Manual counts and vehicle categorization were carried out for one week, as well as counting the distribution times of the traffic lights. The intersections were characterized in their geometry, traffic flows and traffic light system. Based on a previous study, a 5-year increase from 135,170 vehicles to 190,424 vehicles was projected. It was found that the main causes of congestion are the distribution of the alternating times of the signal cycle, and the blockage that occurs by the Metrovía feeder and collector buses. It is concluded that the main solution is the updating and proper adjustment of the traffic light system, as well as the opening of a pre-existing exit road, prior to the intersection, and control of the blockage produced by the Metrovía units

Author Biographies

  • Tarek Ziad Ashhad Verdezoto, Universidad Espíritu Santo. Ecuador
    Tarek Ziad, Ashhad Verdezoto. Civil engineer. Espíritu Santo University. Ecuador. Email: tashhab@uees.edu.ec
  • Fausto Felix Cabrera Montes, Universidad Espíritu Santo. Ecuador
    Fausto Felix, Cabrera Montes. Civil engineer. Professor at the Universidad Espíritu Santo. Ecuador. MSc. in Road Engineering University of Guayaquil, Ecuador. Email: fcabrera@uees.edu.ec
  • Olga Beatriz Roa Medina, Universidad Espíritu Santo. Ecuador
    Olga Beatriz, Roa Medina. Research Professor at the Universidad Espíritu Santo. Ecuador. Mechanical Engineer at the Experimental University of Táchira Venezuela. PhD Civil Engineering. Polytechnic University of Catalonia, Spain. Email: olgaroa@uees.edu.ec

Published

2020-07-31

Issue

Section

Research articles

How to Cite

Analysis of traffic congestion for the improvement of a main road in Guayaquil-Ecuador. (2020). Gaceta Técnica, 21(2), 4-23. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.21905.04960