A Multi-Criteria Methodology for Geometric Redesign and Traffic Efficiency Enhancement of the Misrata Port Entrance: A Case Study

Abstract

Port entrances represent critical nodes within transportation networks due to the interaction between heavy vehicle movements and passenger vehicle traffic, which can negatively affect operational efficiency, increase delays, fuel consumption, and vehicle emissions. This study aims to develop a multi-criteria framework for the geometric redesign and traffic performance improvement of the Misrata Port entrance in Libya.

The proposed methodology is based on three integrated components. First, a comparative geometric evaluation was conducted between the originally planned conventional design, represented by a traditional roundabout, and the proposed unconventional alternative using Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA). Second, the traffic control system of the intersection associated with the port entrance was assessed according to the traffic signal warrants specified in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Third, microscopic simulation models were developed using PTV VISSIM to evaluate the operational performance of both designs based on key performance indicators, including control delay, travel time, average speed, and number of stops.

The results of the multi-criteria evaluation demonstrated the superiority of the proposed design, achieving a weighted score of 75% compared with 25% for the conventional design, owing to its higher capability in improving capacity, and enhancing operational flexibility. Furthermore, the traffic control assessment revealed that the intersection located after the port gate does not satisfy the warrants for traffic signal installation according to MUTCD 2009, supporting the implementation of a simpler and more efficient control strategy. The microscopic simulation results confirmed that the proposed design achieved substantial improvements in operational performance. Control delay was reduced from 49 to 5.3 seconds per vehicle, representing an improvement of 89.2%, resulting in an enhancement of the Level of Service (LOS) from D to A. Additionally, total travel time decreased by 60%, the number of stops was reduced by 91.3%, while the average operating speed increased by 46.6%. The study concludes that integrating geometric redesign, decision analysis tools, and microscopic simulation provides an effective framework for supporting engineering decisions related to port entrance improvements, particularly in environments characterized by high proportions of heavy vehicles and complex traffic patterns.