Best Practice

BEST PRACTICE:

D2−3: Partnering to Improve Work Zone Design and Traffic Control

DESCRIPTION:

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) partners with traffic control contractors, the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA), vendors, and FHWA to improve work zone design and traffic control. KDOT and FHWA meet quarterly with the ATSSA local chapter to discuss the functionality of existing work zone traffic control practices. The traffic control contractors and vendors will travel around the State to meet with KDOT field personnel and/or contractors to determine what is and is not working in work zones.

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

KDOT is interested in developing efficient and practical work zones, creating safer conditions for the driving public. This effort also helped KDOT to establish contacts with all parties involved in work zones.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

Partnering has enhanced communication between KDOT and contractors. Work zone issues are looked at from two perspectives and policy is developed that all stakeholders can agree on. Headquarters personnel are able to determine first−hand what does and does not work in the field, improving work zone design in the future. This has been very successful in achieving uniform work zone practices throughout the State and eliminating awkward or outdated practices or procedures.

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

Partnering has been beneficial to all work zones throughout the State.

STATE(S) WHERE USED:

Kansas

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Eric Nichol, Transportation Safety & Technology, Kansas DOT
Phone: (785) 296−1244
E−mail: ericn@ksdot.org