The first problem focuses on Route 7 itself, the freeway segment between I-87 and I-787. We use this problem to show you how the basic freeway analysis methodology in the HCM can be used to look at issues ranging from whether the difference in the number of lanes by direction is reasonable (2 eastbound and 3 westbound) to the extent to which the facility’s performance varies across the year.

The second problem looks at Exits 6 and 7 on I-87 and the NY-9 exit on NY-7 (see Exhibit 4-3). We show you how to examine questions about the design of the interchange and how to increase capacity and reduce delays.

The third problem looks at the I-787 interchange complex. In a fashion similar to the second problem, we show how to determine whether design enhancements might increase the capacity of several ramps and weaving sections.

In the fourth problem, we use the freeway systems analysis methodology to assess the performance of NY-7 in both directions.

In the fifth and final problem, we use VISSIM, a microscopic simulation model, to show you how to assess the performance of the system as a whole: the interchanges on the western and eastern ends as well as the basic freeway section in-between.