In the development of an operational traffic control system it was necessary to depend heavily on empirical data of traffic performance measurements. The major problem in operating a transportation system is traffic overloading demands at peak periods.
The Expressway Surveillance Project was formed to improve the efficiency of the highway system through the application of electronic automation and traffic engineering to the problem of traffic congestion. By providing a means for quick response in case of accidents and fast removal of hindrances, volume capability of freeways were effectively increased during peak periods. The use of ramp metering controls effected a reduction in delay, afforded safer merging characteristics, and reduced freeway accidents.
Since there is a limit to the volume capacity of a highway system there may come a time when access to the whole system may be controlled and additional persons may have to utilize other modes of transportation.
