Best Practice

BEST PRACTICE:

A1−4: Limited Length of Lane Closure

DESCRIPTION:

Work zone lane closures are limited to two miles within a project. Lane closure length is based on traffic volumes, percent grade, and directional travel demand. The restriction based on roadway grade is applied in the mountainous region of western North Carolina. Directional restrictions are applied in urban areas where rush hour traffic predominates. Lane closure restrictions have been used by the North Carolina Department of Transportation since the early 1990s and have been increasingly used in recent years.

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

Managing the capacity reduction by setting limits on lane closures reduces traffic queuing and the possibility of vehicles becoming involved in a collision.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

Congestion is managed and safety of motorists is improved.

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

This policy applies to high−volume/high−speed divided facilities with major construction projects.

STATE(S) WHERE USED:

North Carolina

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Steve Kite, P.E. State Work Zone Traffic Control Engineer, North Carolina DOT
Phone: (919) 662−4339
E−mail: skite@ncdot.gov