DefinePK

Abstract

The design and analysis procedures of signalized intersections depend on several factors including the base saturation flow rate. The Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) assumes a base saturation flow rate of 1900 passenger car/hour/lane (PCPHPL) for areas with population of more than or equal 250,000 and 1750 PCPHPL for areas with population of less than 250,000. This research aimed at determining the base saturation flow rate in Jordan and Kuwait based on field data collected from 60 signalized intersection approaches. The methodology was based on the direct field measurement of saturation flow rate and its main influencing factors. The HCM standard procedure was followed in the field data collection and results showed that the HCM base saturation flow rate value of 1900 PCPHPL is not suitable for Jordan and Kuwait. The study recommends a value of 2050 PCPHPL for Jordan and 2100 PCPHPL for Kuwait, while a value of 2075 PCPHPL may be used for other Middle Eastern countries that do not have field measured values. The saturation flow rate was found to be significantly affected by the speed limit, lane marking, city, and location (CBD/ Non-CBD) at 95 % confidence. On the other hand, the saturation flow rate was found not significantly affected by the number of lanes, time period, traffic volume, land use, area type, and development density at 95 % confidence.