Intersection Optimization Analysis: Cambie & W. Broadway, Vancouver

Abstract

The cross streets of W. Broadway and Cambie is one of the busiest intersections in the Vancouver Metropolitan area. Introducing a new traffic pattern, such as a diagonal crossing (“scramble crossing”), to improve pedestrian crossing efficiency can be “risky” considering the high traffic volume that the traffic corridor supports. The benefits from introducing a scramble crossing include the obvious shorter distance travelled by pedestrians when wanting to reach an opposite diagonal corner, and, given the right type of scramble crossing, a reduction of vehicle delays that are produced by walking pedestrians. Based on research and review of previous studies and methods, we constructed a mixed integer programming model to establish if the introduction of a scramble crossing at the chosen intersection would improve efficiency. Applying our model to the intersection of study generated positive results, allowing us to recommend that a scramble intersection be introduced based on our data.