Signalized Intersection Capacity Adjustment Factors for Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Operation and performance of signalized intersection relies on roadway’s environmental features and users’ behavioral characteristics which significantly differ among locations. Although Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) provides general guide for designing traffic elements, its recommendations regarding particular values of the design parameters may not be universally applicable. This paper analyses saturation flow rate and capacity adjustment factors for signalized intersection in Mecca, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The research reveals that the capacity of a signalized intersection in Mecca is 2500 pcphpl which is much higher than the value prescribed in HCM. Capacity adjustments factors also vary from HCM recommendations. Estimated parameters may be useful in signal design and traffic system performance analysis in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, research outputs might be utilized for formulating Highway Capacity Manual for the country.