Gateway Design for Transition from High-Speed to Low-Speed Areas: A Driving Simulator Study

Abstract

This research analyzes various gateway designs aimed at reducing vehicle speeds during the transition from 70 km/h (outside urban areas) to 50 km/h (within urban areas) to identify the most effective combinations of physical and visual measures. Seven gateway designs were developed, along with a reference design. These scenarios utilized either transverse road markings or avenue planting before the transition zone and a road narrowing, chicane, or a combination thereof within the transition zone. Using a driving simulator, 54 participants each drove a 14 km route in which all designs appeared in randomized order under standardized conditions. Objective driving data (speed, lateral position, acceleration, etc.) were recorded with STISIM Drive 3 and analyzed using Python, Excel, and IBM SPSS Statistics. Subjective experiences and preferences were collected via Google Forms. Avenue planting showed no significant effect, whereas transverse road markings, road narrowing, and chicanes effectively reduced speed. Chicanes caused the most considerable speed reduction but led to the most abrupt braking. The combination of transverse road markings and road narrowing enabled a smooth deceleration before the "urban area" sign, ensuring drivers entered below the speed limit. After passing the gateways, vehicle speeds within the urban zone were similar across all designs.