Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Variable Advisory Speed System on Queue Mitigation in Work Zones

Variable Advisory Speed Systems (VASS) provide drivers with advanced warning regarding traffic speeds downstream to help them make better decisions. The objective of this study was to perform a statistical analysis on pertinent performance data to evaluate VASS effectiveness on queue mitigation. A VASS was deployed at a work zone on a freeway in Utah, consisting of five sensors and two variable message signs. The data showed that the VASS was effective on weekends during evening peak hours when there was a slowdown in the work zone approach. No consistent significance was seen on weekdays during the evening peak period.