I-66 Multimodal Study Final Report - Virginia Department of ...

Mobility Options2.3 Evaluation of Mobility OptionsThe evaluation of the mobility options is described in detail in this section. The results and keyfindings developed from the abbreviated travel demand model results also are provided. Thefull MOE table comparing each of the mobility options can be found in Table 2.3 in Section 2.4.In evaluating the mobility options, the study team also reviewed the results of the marketresearch study (discussed in detail in Section 6.0 of the Interim Report and in Appendix B),stakeholder interviews (detailed in Appendix A), previous studies, and comments receivedfrom the public and members of the PARC.Option A – HOV RestrictionsThis mobility option addresses traffic congestion on I-66, particularly in the reverse-peak directionby implementing new Bus/HOV 2+ restrictions during the peak periods. As illustrated inFigure 2.6, I‐66 lanes in both directions are designated Bus/HOV during peak periods. No newlanes are added; however, the following HOV restrictions are applied:In the peak direction, all lanes are Bus/HOV 3+ only during peak periods (no change fromCLRP+);In the reverse‐peak direction, all lanes are Bus/HOV 2+ only during peak periods; andIn off‐peak periods all lanes are open to all traffic.Under this option, the expanded HOV restrictions would be in effect during the same hours asthe current restrictions inside the Beltway. This would serve to encourage HOV use in the corridor,by requiring SOV drivers to use surface streets and arterials instead of I-66 during thepeak periods. The reduced levels of traffic congestion also would allow buses on I-66 to travelin the reverse peak direction at higher speeds than today during the peak periods.Figure 2.6HOV Restrictions – Option AKey FindingsDue to the HOV 2+ restriction, this option reduces travel on I-66 in the reverse-peak directionand shifts vehicle travel onto parallel roads or outside the study area. Other findings based onthe MOEs detailed in Table 2.3 include:I-66 Multimodal Study 2-15