Progression optimization featuring arterial- and route-based priority signal networks

Arterial progression schemes based on the bandwidth criterion are widely used for traffic signal optimization. The schemes provide robust plans for traffic control as well as a variety of design options that can be tailored to specific network and traffic conditions. In recent years, arterial progression optimization was also extended to grid networks. The programs use advanced mathematical programming models which are computationally demanding when applied to large-scale networks. This article describes procedures that dramatically improve the computability of such models and bring them into the realm of real-time application. The procedures are based on, first, selecting and optimizing an arterial priority network or a route priority network. Results are then used in a subsequent stage to determine an optimal plan for the entire network. The procedure is applicable to both uniform- and variable-bandwidth optimization and can accelerate computation by two orders of magnitude, ceteris paribus. This facilitates optimization of large-scale urban networks, provides a capability to analyze many design options and is also amenable for real-time implementation.