A Study on the Application of RCUT intersection to Japan Considering Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Abstract

In Japan, arterial roads are not clearly classified by hierarchy, and traffic accidents and congestion continue to occur, posing ongoing social issues that hinder urban mobility. To address these problems, a new intersection design called “Alternative Intersections” has been introduced abroad, aiming to reduce vehicle conflict points and improve safety and efficiency. In Japan, pedestrian and bicyclist crossings are common at grade intersections on arterial roads but crossing methods for these users at Alternative Intersections have not yet been established. This study focused on the RCUT control method among Alternative Intersections and compared the crossing types at conventional intersections and with the RCUT control method using simulations. The results of the analysis revealed that while certain considerations are necessary for pedestrians and bicyclists, the application of RCUT enables safe and efficient passage for these users. This demonstrates that RCUT is highly effective and suitable for implementation on arterial roads in Japan.