摘要: |
Florida is extremely vulnerable to many natural disasters such as flooding and hurricanes. Due to its several
miles of coastline, significant drainage systems, and relatively low elevations, the entire state is especially
susceptible to flooding at any time of the year. Extreme disruptions to the transportation networks and
communications is one of the impacts of flooding and any kind of natural disaster or emergency situation.
Hence, the importance of an integrated, comprehensive approach to disaster loss reduction is not
neglectable. The transportation system in Florida needs to overcome many disruptions during the hurricane
season caused by the heavy rains, strong storms, and many other local events. In these critical situations,
the safe, fast, and reliable shipment of cargo is vital to ensure the continuation of the demands for society.
Above that, the safety of truck drivers at all conditions remains the first priority.Therefore, this research focuses to support the design and operation of the emergency truck parking network
(ETPN) for freight operations in the State of Florida. The research team will focus on the opportunities and
challenges associated with the design and operation of the ETPN in Florida, and also, will focus on
developing decision-making support for and managerial insight into the design and operation of such
networks. Specifically, the two specific objectives of this project are:
(1). Conduct a statewide study to (i) assess the supply and demand for emergency truck parking, (ii)
develop metrics to assess the safety and economic impact of emergency truck parking network, and
(iii) build a prototype web-based tool or mobile app to guide truck drivers to emergency parking
locations in Florida.
(2). Develop simulation models to (i) analyze the performance of alternative emergency parking
networks and (ii) generate insight into the impact of truck driver behavior on the expected
performance of alternative emergency parking networks.
Consequently, this research can reduce travel time and improve safety which the cost saving can be spent
on building new infrastructure. Furthermore, by directing trucks out of the network in a shorter time and
preventing the illegal parking the mobility of other vehicles will be improved and the risk of accidents will
be reduced. The results of this project will be served for protecting, managing, and organizing the freight
movement in various critical/emergency situation. |