2013 Volume 34 Issue 2 Pages 115-125
Highly reliable traffic networks on highways and roadways are very important during abnormal periods, such as during disasters. Network reliability can be improved effectively by focusing on the most important key link in the network. Although many indices have been proposed for identifying the most important key link, numerous shortcomings associated with these indices make it difficult to obtain a good solution for evaluating network reliability improvement. In addition, an investment strategy based on local government support is also important for improving network reliability. However, the capital available from local government for traffic restoration is usually limited after a disaster. This paper therefore proposes an optimal method of network reliability improvement based on local government support combined with limited capital. To determine the efficiency of the model for network reliability improvement, simulations for a simple parallel network and a simple bridge network are conducted. A general algorithm for identifying the most important key link in any network is then developed based on these simulations. Lastly, a rational conclusion for network reliability improvement is presented.
