Geography ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2020

Abstract

Contraflow, an emergency traffic management strategy, is a proposed approach to increase evacuation efficiency. However, these contraflow networks have rarely been tested and are vulnerable to disruption. This research examines the contraflow network of Houston, Texas, using a novel approach to evacuation modeling. Evacuation times of census block groups were modelled under both contraflow and non-contraflow conditions. Evacuation routes were then severed one-by-one - it was found that severing a route in non-contraflow conditions increased travel times more than under contraflow conditions. Changes in travel times were then mapped and then correlated with socio-economic variables. Results suggested that contraflow initiation benefitted lower income regions of the city – which was ultimately driven by the spatial configuration of higher and lower income areas within a catchment. Finally, three additional evacuation routes were added to the network and their impact was assessed. The addition of two routes proved most favorable.

Degree Name

Geography

Department Name

Geography

Level of Degree

Masters

First Committee Member (Chair)

Christopher Lippitt

Second Committee Member

Yan Lin

Third Committee Member

Su Zhang

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Keywords

GIS, Transportation, Contraflow, Houston

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