Network effects of local intersection design strategies

Various strategies exist to choose the best intersection design considering the operational performance of an intersection. There are model-based strategies which for example choose the design with the minimal average delay or rule-based strategies which choose the design based on the total volume or specific safety preferences. These strategies choose the design for a local situation. The analysis of network effects (e.g. the total travel time in the network) of these strategies is an unexplored area of research. This paper provides some first insights in the network effects of various local intersection design strategies in comparison with a global network optimization. Strategies, advising all-way stop-controlled, two-way stop-controlled and signalized intersections and roundabouts are tested on the well-known Sioux Falls network. Results show substantial differences between the network performances and solutions of the different strategies, providing a base for future improvement of intersection design strategies which benefit a better network performance.