The existing variable speed limit (VSL) control strategies rely on variable message signs, leading to slow response times and sensitivity to driver compliance. These methods struggle to adapt to environments where both connected automated vehicles (CAVs) and manual vehicles coexist. This article proposes a VSL control strategy using the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm to optimize travel time, reduce collision risks, and minimize energy consumption. The algorithm leverages real-time traffic data and prior speed limits to generate new control actions. A reward function is des...