I’m working on a civil engineering writing question and need an explanation and answer to help me learn.

Why are we analyzing an intersection using Synchro software?

Why are we finding the level of service (LOS) in a different scenario?

How can we improve an intersection with such an analysis?

each question with a small paragraph

1

The main purpose of the ring barrier diagram is to keep all movements separated and

sequenced in an intersection to prevent or minimize any possible conflicts and crashes. In

order to standardize any design, operation, and maintenance of an intersection a ring barrier

diagram is used. The ring barrier diagram allows the engineer to study all the movements and

sequencing of an intersection, to then be able to plan the project considering high safety

measurements.

2

Long cycle lengths have huge negative impact on road congestion compared to short

cycle lengths. The main reason is that long cycle lengths provide a green light time for the main

roads that is approximately four times bigger than the minor roads’ green light time, converting

street to barriers instead of stitching them together. The huge issue is that pedestrians will have

to wait for a long time to cross the road, thus decreasing their compliance. Another big issue is

that some cars and most of motorists will decide not to use the minor roads so that they do not

have to wait for a long time, therefore increasing road congestion with higher average delay on

the main road.

3

Increasing the green time at signalized intersections for one approach has negative impact

on the other approaches. This will increase the average delay for the other approaches; not only

for cars and motorists but for pedestrians as well. It will also increase the volume on the other

approaches, causing high road congestion by making the flow slower and frustrating.