Best Practice

BEST PRACTICE:

G1−3: 'Rolling Roadblock' Method for Total Road Closure

DESCRIPTION:

This method is used when roadway construction activities (e.g., placing bridge beams, overhead sign structures, etc.) are taking place in or above all lanes of the roadway, thus requiring traffic to be temporarily slowed rather than completely stopped. Traffic is paced at a safe speed (desirably not less than 20 mph on the Interstate) to provide a gap in traffic and allow the work activities to be performed. The pacing of traffic is controlled by pilot vehicles (i.e., law enforcement vehicles with blue lights flashing) driven by uniformed law enforcement personnel. Any on−ramps between the beginning point of the pacing area and the work area are blocked until the pilot vehicle has passed. Two−way radio provides constant communication to pilot vehicles, contractor's workers, flaggers stationed at on−ramps, and the project engineer. Advance signing warning motorists of the traffic pacing area is also provided. Florida has successfully used this technique on several projects in the past 2 or 3 years.

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

To increase safety and reduce the number of crashes caused by roadway construction activities by allowing traffic to continue moving at a reduced speed rather than coming to a complete stop. This method is much less expensive and more convenient than building detours.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

Increased safety by reducing the risk of crashes due to stationary vehicles on the roadway and reduced project costs.

MOST APPLICABLE LOCATION(S)/PROJECT(S):

High−volume/high−speed urban and rural freeways and other multi−lane access controlled facilities. Type of work: Overhead work (e.g., bridges and overhead signs, etc.) requiring total roadway closure.

STATE(S) WHERE UTILIZED:

Florida

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Cheryl Adams, Design Engineer, Florida DOT
Telephone: (850) 414−4327
E−mail: Cheryl.Adams@dot.state.fl.us

Norbert Munoz
Safety Engineer, FHWA Florida Division Office
Telephone: (850) 942−9650, ext. 3024
E−mail: Norbert Munoz@fhwa.dot.gov