Benefit-and-Cost Analysis of Strategic Acquisition of Limited Access Right-of-Way near Interchanges

The purpose of this study was to determine whether acquiring additional limited access right-of-way (ROW) at the time an interchange is built and before the surrounding area is subdivided and developed, is in fact cost effective in light of potential costs and benefits. The study methodology included the following: (1) traffic operations analysis of the interchange with varying configurations of signalized access spacing, (2) safety analysis of interchanges with varied access spacing in Florida, and (3) a cost/benefit analysis of acquiring varying amounts of limited access ROW. Findings indicate that the long term safety, operational, and fiscal benefits of purchasing additional limited access ROW at interchange areas greatly exceed the initial up front costs of acquiring additional limited access ROW. Additional research is suggested to further refine and expand upon these results.