Truck-only Lanes on Urban Arterials: A Value of Time Approach

This study evaluates the travel cost benefits of truck-only lanes (TOL) on arterial roads, from a value of time perspective. A simple three-lane TOL corridor is developed and demand and value of time scenarios are systematically analysed using a user equilibrium assignment procedure. It is concluded that implementing a TOL when truck proportions are too low results in significantly higher travel costs than if all lanes are left as general purpose lanes. Implementing a TOL when truck proportions are too high also does not result in travel cost benefits. Based on travel cost considerations, TOL on arterial roadways appear to be marginally justifiable only under quite specific traffic volume, truck percentage and value of time conditions.