network instability

Phantom
Traffic Jam.

A broader corridor view of the NJ Turnpike system. Increase demand and reduce stability until a small disturbance grows into a self-sustaining traffic wave moving backward through the network.

Scenario

Traffic demand 35%

Driver reaction 1.4s

Following distance 1.2s

Truck flow 12%

Weather stress 10%

Disturbance medium

Simplified dynamic model focused on traffic-wave formation, corridor instability and shock propagation.

NJ Turnpike system view

Newark

Elizabeth

14C

Secaucus

Lincoln

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avg mph

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jam miles

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veh/hr

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wave speed

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system

stableunstableshockwave

PhantomTraffic Jam.

Scenario

NJ Turnpike system view

Phantom
Traffic Jam.