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Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://arks.princeton.edu/ark:/88435/dsp017d278t11z
Title: A Queueing Theory Approach to Modeling Toll Plaza Delay with Applications for Commute User Cost Optimization
Authors: Jiang, Angela
Advisors: Massey, William
Department: Operations Research and Financial Engineering
Class Year: 2013
Abstract: Queues at toll plazas are often the source of long delays for commuters trying to get from their residence to workplace. Commuters traveling from New Jersey to Manhattan can choose from three tollways to cross the Hudson River - the Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel, and George Washington Bridge. The optimal route, however, for the same origin in New Jersey and destination in Manhattan may not always be the same because of changing delay times at toll plazas throughout the day. This thesis focuses on the minimization of user cost, which includes travel time and vehicle operating costs, to solve the optimal commute problem. Empirical hourly traffic volume data and queueing theory are used to model delay time and create delay pro les for each crossing. We estimate the price elasticity of travel demand to find a relationship between toll prices charged and the delay profile. Finally, we develop a a user application that allows drivers to determine their optimal route by inputting factors including their origin, destination, and time of travel.
Extent: 95 pages
URI: http://arks.princeton.edu/ark:/88435/dsp017d278t11z
Access Restrictions: Walk-in Access. This thesis can only be viewed on computer terminals at the Mudd Manuscript Library.
Type of Material: Princeton University Senior Theses
Language: en_US
Appears in Collections:Operations Research and Financial Engineering, 2000-2023

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