Evaluation of the functionality of existing intersections through GİS-supported spatial and statistical analysis

In this thesis study, the density levels of 9 signalized intersections between Karayolları and Toplu Konut Boulevard, located on Atatürk Boulevard in Atakum district of Samsun province, were calculated by considering 15 criteria and examined according to density determination methods. First of all, the number of vehicles around the intersection, which is one of the criteria used to determine intersection density, was obtained through daily measurements. Then, the layers of schools, public institutions, hospitals and settlements, which require routine transportation during the day and therefore are among the basic elements that affect traffic density the most, were transferred to the GIS environment and frequently used intersections were determined by the buffer analysis method. In the next stage of the study, emission factors resulting from stop-start vehicles at signalized lights at intersections were calculated, then noise analyzes were performed in Computer Aided Noise Abatement (CadnaA) software and noise maps were created. The intersections with the busiest and least intense noise are indicated on these maps. Then, the fuel consumption was calculated and the changes in fuel consumption were determined if appropriate intersection models were made. In addition, intersection density levels were calculated by calculating queue lengths, delay times and traffic accidents around intersections. In order to evaluate all the criteria together and create intersection density rankings, 8 main criteria were determined in line with expert opinions by using the Content Validity Method (CVM), which is a Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) method. Then, the optimum weights on the criteria were determined through a linear optimization model using the Best-Worst Method (BWM) method. Finally, the density levels of the intersections were determined by scoring with the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solutions (TOPSIS) method. According to the results, the busiest intersection was the Karayolları intersection, while the least busy intersection was the Toplu Konut Boulevard intersection. In line with these results, intersection models were created and presented as suggestions to solve traffic congestion. By implementing the proposed intersection models, fuel savings alone correspond to approximately €6,000,000 annually. It is thought that with this savings, all design costs can be covered within an estimated 3 years