The primary goal of this research is to examine the effectiveness of ATP implementation on a major interstate highway carrying freight traffic under various traffic conditions, given managed strategies. ATP managed lane strategies would include:

• ATP-dedicated lane on the left-most lane
• ATP-dedicated lane on the right-most lane
• ATP-General Purpose Vehicles (GPV) shared lane on the left-most lane
• No dedicated/shared lanes (i.e., free lane selection)

Using VISSIM-based traffic simulation modeling approach, the impacts of ATP on traffic flow under the three-lane use strategies are assessed by capturing mobility, safety, and environmental performance measures depending on different market penetration rates (MPRs) of ATP fleets.

In addition, scenario-driven investigations will be performed to capture the drivers’ safety awareness, given ATP on a highway, by using a high-fidelity driving simulator. Taking into considerations heavy truck traffics generated by Port Newark -Elizabeth Marine Terminal, New Jersey would be the most desirable state in the U.S where the ATP technology can produce tangible benefits when implemented.

The anticipated results of the research cover a board spectrum of outcomes including the following:

• A comprehensive review of the state of the research and practices for ATP, with up-to-date field deployment and legislative actions included.
• A simulation test bed specializing in ATP and its interactions with GPVs at a microscopic level.
• The benefits and disadvantages of different managed lane policies for ATP as well as the recommendations for policy implementation at the early deployment stage in the near future.
• Assessment of GPV drivers’ interactions with ATP under mixed traffic condition.