Abstract:
The ongoing evaluation of the Houston high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane system is discussed. Currently, 64 miles of a planned 105 mile HOV lane system are in operation in five radial freeway corridors. Although there are a few sections of two-lane, two-direction facilities, most of the HOV lanes in Houston are one-way, reversible lanes located in the median. They are usually 20 feet wide, and are separated from the mainlanes by concrete median barriers. Ingress and egress is provided in a variety of different ways. The cost of the HOV lane system has averaged approximately $6 million a mile. Annual operating costs average $250,000 per lane. Some 80,000 people use the lanes on a daily basis, with carpools and vanpools accounting for 60% of this and bus riders 40%. Survey results indicate that the time savings, trip time reliability, and the ability to avoid traffic congestion are the main reasons people use the lanes. The experience in Houston indicates that, while HOV lanes are not the total solution to traffic congestion and environmental problems, they can play important roles in helping to address these concerns.
Supplemental Notes:
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