Dynamic Traffic Equilibrium with Discrete/Continuous Econometric Models

A procedure is developed to simulate the spatial and temporal distribution of traffic flows on a simplified highway network for home-to-work commuter trips. The procedure is based on a discrete/continuous econometric framework in which travelers' choices of route and departure time are modeled. Equilibrium traffic flows are determined using the estimated econometric models in a classic supply/demand equilibrium. The potential usefulness of the approach is demonstrated through a number of simulation runs in which equilibrium traffic flows are determined under network capacity constraints and alternate signal timing strategies.