Operational Analysis of School Zones Using a Driving Simulator

Simulation is a proven engineering tool used to evaluate the needs of existing and future smart transportation systems. Cities are livable communities with transportation modes where drivers and pedestrians coexist. School zones are vital components in a city. A balance of mobility, speed compliance, and markings and signage in school zones is a must for all users' safety and quality of life. Research has shown that drivers do not comply with speed limits around school zones. A survey conducted as part of this study indicated that 48% of drivers are confused regarding school zones' signage and speed limits. Possible solution options were presented in the survey, with combinations of signage and pavement markings to better inform the road users, and to improve drivers' awareness and compliance. Based on the survey's results, a combination of signage and pavement markings was selected to improve the current conditions. This combination was compared to an existing school area signage and marking condition in the city of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. Twenty-four scenarios were evaluated using the University of Puerto Rico driving simulator. The speed and acceleration noise were evaluated between the base and proposed scenarios. The principal finding is a mean speed reduction on 70.8% of the roadway segments evaluated, using the proposed combination of an overhead speed sign with alternating flashing beacons and pavement markings.