Work Zone News Archive
Seeking State Applications to Host Kickoff Event for National Work Zone Awareness Week - 12/11/2012
The National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) Executive Committee is inviting State DOTs to submit an application to host the 2014 National campaign kick-off media event. A host State will be chosen from the applicants based on the State's accomplishments in work zone safety practices and campaigns, and the proposed event site and logistics. The winner will be announced during the April 2013 kick-off event in Washington, D.C. Application forms are due by February 15, 2013.
Connecticut DOT Uses Social Media to Name Work Zone Mascot - 12/11/2012
Connecticut DOT announced that "Work Zone Wally" is the name of its new orange work zone safety mascot. The name was chosen by the public through voting on Facebook and Twitter. The campaign to name the mascot was conducted over a few months, with the goal of spreading the word that safety in work zones is a serious issue.
Development of Performance Assessment Guidelines for Virginia's Work Zone Transportation Management Plans - 11/7/2012
The Virginia Center for Transportation has developed report on guidelines to assist State work zone personnel with evaluating the performance of their TMPs. The guidelines are intended to help determine if the anticipated work zone impacts and changes desired with the implementation of a TMP actually occur in the field.
Nevada DOT Uses Accelerated Bridge Construction to Successfully Move Bridge on I-15 - 10/31/2012
An article in the August 2012 issue of Roads & Bridges titled, "Design Innovation: Quick Replacement" describes how the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) used accelerated bridge construction (ABC) to move a bridge 60 feet across I-15 at the West Mesquite Interchange in approximately six hours without closing the road. Traffic was routed up and down the ramps at the Interchange to maintain some traffic flow. The use of ABC allowed NDOT to build the bridge for more than $10 million less and six months faster (reducing traffic disruptions from months to days) than using traditional construction methods. As stated by the contractor who proposed the use of ABC, "We knew that ABC would cost more, but we could make up the difference saving on lane rentals, building the crossovers, limiting excavation and reducing time and overhead."
OSHA Publishes New Directive on Inspection and Citation Guidance for Work Zones - 10/25/2012
On October 16, 2012, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published guidance for the safe inspection of work sites where employees engaged in construction work on and near roadways or highways are exposed to struck-by hazards from vehicular traffic. The Directive is intended to help Compliance Safety and Health Officers (CSHOs) safely inspect roadway and highway construction work zones and to issue consistent citations for violations. It provides guidance for proper citation under 29 CFR 1926, Subpart G Signs, Signals, and Barricades, which incorporates by reference Part VI of the MUTCD. It also provides general enforcement guidance on issuing citations for Section 5(a)(1) General Duty Clause violations.
ATSSA Seeking Submissions for Work Zone Memorial - 10/23/2012
The American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) is compiling names of those who have lost their lives in roadway work zone accidents for the 2013 National Work Zone Memorial. The memorial, formally titled "The National Work Zone Memorial - Respect and Remembrance: Reflections of Life on the Road," was unveiled in 2002 as a tribute to those lost in work zone accidents. The memorial is transported to numerous communities across the country throughout the year to educate the public on the need to keep themselves and others safe while traveling in work zones. Individuals may submit a nomination for someone they have lost in a work zone accident by filling out the form and sending it along to ATSSA. Those nominated will then appear on the memorial that travels across the country. Submissions are due by December 14, 2012.
Law Enforcement Personnel in Work Zones Web-Based-Training Now Available - 10/12/2012
Safe and Effective Use of Law Enforcement Personnel in Work Zones is an interactive, Web-based training course that provides law enforcement agencies and personnel with practices and procedures to improve safety in work zones. The purpose of the course is to provide a basic knowledge to save lives, avoid work zone crashes, and improve law enforcement personnel safety when working in a work zone. The course educates participants on standards and guidelines related to temporary traffic control in work zones; the role of law enforcement officers in work zones; the components of a typical work zone; and the proper practices and procedures related to the use of law enforcement officers in work zones. The course is free and takes approximately 3.5 hrs to complete. Registration is required.
NY Governor Announces 'Drivers First' Initiative to Reduce Disruption for Motorists at Construction Projects Across the State - 10/1/2012
New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced the 'Drivers First' initiative, a new approach by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to prioritize the convenience of motorists and ensure that disruptions are as minimal as possible to drivers at highway and bridge projects across the state. To kick off the initiative, the Governor directed NYSDOT to adjust the construction schedule on the Twin Bridges repair project to ensure the bridge opens both lanes to traffic Sunday at noon, instead of early Monday morning and thereby reduce disruption and delays for drivers. In addition, the Governor has directed NYSDOT to undertake a thorough review of all state highway and bridge repair projects to ensure that disruptions are as minimal as possible to motorists. To ensure that future projects prioritize the convenience of New York drivers, the Governor has also directed NYSDOT to include in its primary criteria for awarding contracts a requirement that all construction schedules are designed to cause as few disruptions for motorists as possible.
ARTBA Honors Four State DOTs for Work Zone Safety Awareness - 9/24/2012
Transportation departments in Missouri, Texas, Utah, and Virginia were recently recognized with Roadway Work Zone Safety Awareness Awards by the American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) for their efforts to reduce roadway work zone injuries and fatalities. The Missouri DOT placed first in the "Outreach Campaign/State Level" category for its "Barrel Bob" outreach program, which uses a mascot to bring attention to work zone safety. The Texas DOT won second place in the same category for its "Safety: Mission Zero Campaign," which included the production of a work zone best practices video for field workers, a statewide media and public education campaign to observe National Work Zone Safety Awareness Week, and improvements to work zone equipment and procedures. The Utah DOT won first place in the "Outreach Campaign/Local Level" for its "Think Safety Outreach Campaign," which educated students on the dangers of entering work zones. The Virginia DOT won home second place in the same category for its "Work Zone Awareness Senior Safety Challenge," which safe driving in work zones specifically to high school seniors.
Assessing the Effectiveness of TMP Strategies - New FHWA Report - 9/17/2012
Many transportation management plan (TMP) strategies have been implemented by practitioners, but there is uncertainty about their relative effectiveness. The objective of this research effort was to identify and assess possible approaches to evaluating TMP strategies, determine what data are needed and available to support an assessment, identify any relevant work completed to date, and provide recommendations on the feasibility and usefulness of and possible approaches for conducting an assessment of TMP strategy effectiveness.
Connecticut DOT Holding Contest to Name Work Zone Safety Mascot - 9/6/2012
The Connecticut Department of Transportation's (CTDOT) Office of Construction has announced a social-media driven campaign to help name its new work zone safety mascot, which will be making appearances at a numerous statewide events throughout the remainder of the year. To be considered, the name must be submitted on the Connecticut Work Zone Safety official Facebook page or tagged on Twitter with the hashtag, #ObeyTheOrange. The winner will win a Connecticut Work Zone Safety prize pack, and recognition for submitting the winning name. CTDOT views the campaign as a fun way to get out the serious message that work zone safety is an important matter.
Minnesota DOT Uses SPMT Technology to Speed Replacement of I-35 Maryland Avenue Bridge - 9/6/2012
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) recently used a Self-Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT) for the first time to move the Interstate 35E Maryland Avenue Bridge in St. Paul. The bridge was moved into position in two sections and was part of a pilot demonstration of the SPMT technology for MnDOT. The SPMT technology will enable MnDOT to close the bridge for approximately 60 days as compared to four months using traditional construction methods. The bridge is expected to be open to traffic in mid-September after some additional work is done around the bridge. This project was partially funded through an FHWA Highways for LIFE demonstration project grant.
A Guidebook for Nighttime Construction: Impacts on Safety, Quality, and Productivity - 9/6/2012
NCHRP Report 726: A Guidebook for Nighttime Construction: Impacts on Safety, Quality, and Productivity provides suggested guidance on the conduct of nighttime highway construction and maintenance operations. These guidelines are based on best practices and strategies for nighttime operations that relate to the personnel and traveling public safety and the quality of the as-built facility. The guide also addresses work-zone risk analysis planning and implementation, construction nuisances to both neighbors and workers, and work-zone illumination methods.
Performance Contracting for Construction - A Guide to Using Performance Goals and Measures to Improve Project Delivery - 9/6/2012
This FHWA report provides guidance on performance contracting for a typical reconstruction and rehabilitation project. The guide includes recommended processes and sample materials for project selection; performance goals; measurement methodology (and associated incentive/disincentive fee structure); sample enhanced low bid and best value awards; and SEP-14 applications. It also includes lessons learned and sample materials from a successful pilot project conducted by the Michigan Department of Transportation. FHWA has updated this guidance from the original version developed in 2006.
Best Practices in Work Zone Safety Featured at Local Transportation Asset Management Virtual Conference & Innovation Showcase - 8/22/2012
On September 18-20, 2012 the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse will host the comprehensive "Best Practices in Work Zone Safety" educational component of the "Local Transportation Asset Management Virtual Conference & Innovation Showcase," or LoTrans(TM) 2012. The free, virtual sessions will provide an interactive learning and networking experience for public officials, contractors and other transportation industry professionals. Topics covered will include ITS and work zones, automated speed enforcement, access and egress, night time construction, utilities in work zones, and prioritizing safety strategies.
Utah DOT Uses Movie Trailer to Inform Motorists about I-15 CORE Project - 8/15/2012
The Utah Department of Transportation developed a movie trailer, entitled "End is Near", to provide information about the upcoming completion of the I-15 CORE project. The trailer is being shown in Utah County movie theaters throughout July and August and was developed in response to market research that showed that some people didn't know what was left on the project and some thought the work would let up a little.
North Carolina DOT Holding Contest to Name I-40/440 Project - 8/9/2012
The North Carolina DOT (NCDOT) is asking the public to help name the three-year project to rebuild I-40/440 in Wake County. The project will cover 11 miles of I-40/440, from U.S. 1 in Cary to U.S. 64/264 in Raleigh, and will require significant lane closures. The winning name will be used in all future references to the project and will be part of the project web site name. A panel of NCDOT employees will pick the five best names and put them to a public vote on the NCDOT web site.
New Video from the Michigan DOT Explains Freeway Work Zone Speed Limits to Motorists - 8/7/2012
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), in partnership with the Michigan State Police (MSP), developed a video to help motorists understand Michigan's approach to setting speed limits in freeway work zones. The video describes the "Where Workers Present 45"speed limit, which applies when workers or active equipment are within about one vehicle width of the line of barrels in the work zone. It also advises that if there is a concrete barrier wall separating workers from traffic, then the speed limit is 60 mph.
North Dakota DOT Re-Opens Damaged Roadway Weeks Ahead of Schedule - 8/7/2012
By utilizing an early completion incentive with its contractor, the North Dakota Department of Transportation was able to repair the extensive landslide damage done to Highway 22 more than a month ahead of schedule, saving motorists from an additional six weeks of long detours. State Highway 22 is frequently traveled and serves as a major connection route for the oil and energy industry. When two landslides damaged the road, drivers were forced to take detours that required them to travel an extra 20 to 50 miles. NDDOT calculated the total additional user cost per day that the road was closed at $61,191. The early completion translated into a $2.5 million savings in additional road user costs.
Development of a Sensing Methodology for Work-Zone Hazard Awareness - 7/24/2012
This report presents a methodology using vision-based object recognition algorithms to detect and track vehicles intruding into a work zone, and to detect missing work zone channelization traffic control devices such as barrels. The intent is to enable activation of early warnings for workers and drivers so that they can avoid hazards. The research was done through the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA) Project 139, Development of a Sensing Methodology for Intelligent and Reliable Work-Zone Hazard Awareness.
Determining Incentive/Disincentive Amounts for Highway Construction Projects - 7/17/2012
The Mineta Transportation Institute has released a report that reviews procedures related to the determination of daily incentive/disincentive dollar amounts for contracting provisions for early project completion.
Missouri Expands Move Over Law to Include Highway Workers - 7/16/2012
Missouri recently enacted into law an expansion of its 2002 "Slow Down and Move Over" law to add highway work. The law previously addressed enforcement and emergency response vehicles parked on the side of the road, and now also includes Missouri DOT vehicles parked with amber and white lights flashing. The revised law takes effect August 28 and requires motorists to slow down or change lanes when approaching these vehicles. Passage of the law was the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission's highest priority during the 2012 legislative session.
GAO Report Examines Practices to Expedite Highway Project Completion - 7/16/2012
A recently released GAO report found that some Federal and State practices are promising for expediting project completion. The report describes the process and factors that could affect highway project time frames, examines state DOT views on the benefits and challenges of the provisions to expedite highway projects established in SAFETEA-LU, and describes additional initiatives that state DOTs and FHWA have implemented to expedite the completion of highway projects.
Traffic Analysis Toolbox Volume XII: Work Zone Traffic Analysis - Applications and Decision Framework - 6/28/2012
FHWA developed this document to assist analysts and decision-makers involved in work zone impact assessment, evaluation of mitigation strategies, and selection of maintenance of traffic alternative(s). The document outlines key steps involved in work zone traffic analysis and includes several examples/case studies to demonstrate various analytical methods and applications. It provides an overview of key considerations and concepts related to work zone traffic analysis. This document also includes several multi-criteria decision-making approaches that can be used in alternatives analysis.
Work Zone Fatality Reduction Strategies - May 23 Webinar Recording and Presentations Available - 6/25/2012
During this webinar, three States that have experienced reductions in work zone fatalities over the past several years shared their efforts in work zone planning, management, and outreach. Presenters from California, North Carolina, and Florida provided examples of how it takes a combination of strategies to make work zones safer and offered suggestions based on their experiences that may help other agencies enhance work zone safety. A recording of the webinar, transcript, and the presentations are now available.
MassDOT Replaces Community Bridge in Record Time - 6/25/2012
The Massachusetts DOT (MassDOT) recently replaced a bridge over a busy stretch of Route 9 in Wellesley in 62 hours, making it the state's fastest bridge replacement ever. MassDOT used accelerated bridge construction techniques and a design-build team to reduce project delivery time, along with an incentive/disincentive contract for crews.
Integrating the Highway Safety Manual into the Highway Project Development Process - 6/21/2012
This new FHWA guide provides examples of opportunities for integrating the AASHTO Highway Safety Manual into the project development process. This includes integrating methods from the Highway Safety Manual into planning, alternatives development and analysis, design, operations, and maintenance. The guide provides a description of each of these steps in the project development process, and then provides a discussion of the methods from the Highway Safety Manual, and in some cases other resources, that support these steps.
Sharing Best Practices and Project Solutions Through the Construction Peer Network - 6/21/2012
The Construction Peer Network (CPN) is a collaboration among the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA), Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), and FHWA. Using regional peer exchanges and new products such as the Program Information Tool, the network is bringing practitioners together to discuss more effective construction practices and learn from each other's experiences.
Texas DOT Uses ITS to Provide Traveler Information on I-35 in Central Texas - 6/11/2012
The Texas DOT is implementing a construction traveler information system along I-35 in the Waco district. The first phase of the system will involve providing motorists with travel time information for the 90-mile stretch of the interstate that is under construction to expand it from four to six lanes. Information will be collected from sensors and provided via dynamic message signs. The second phase will incorporate information about construction delays resulting from lane closures.
FHWA Webinar on Work Zone Traffic Analysis - Applications and Decision Framework - June 19 - 5/31/2012
During this webinar on June 19, 2012 from 1:00 - 2:30 pm EDT, presenters will provide information on various approaches and applications of work zone impact analysis. The webinar material will be based on upcoming Traffic Analysis Toolbox Volume XII - Work Zone Traffic Analysis - Applications and Decision Framework. The audience will have the opportunity to ask questions of the presenters. There is no cost to participate in this webinar and it is open to anyone who is interested. Advance registration is required.
Construction Quality Assurance for Design-Build Highway Projects - 5/31/2012
FHWA has issued a TechBrief designed to help clarify the roles, responsibilities, and activities related to construction quality assurance (QA) on design-build highway projects. Topics addressed in the TechBrief include QA, quality control, acceptance, independent assurance, dispute resolution, personnel qualification, laboratory qualification, and warranties.
High-Visibility Garments and Worker Safety on Roadways - 5/31/2012
The U.S. Forest Service has released a report that summarizes the high-visibility safety apparel requirements for U.S. Forest Service employees who work on public roadways. The report discusses high-visibility regulations and standards and ways to mitigate the risks of working on public roadways for all Forest Service personnel, fire and aviation management, and law enforcement.
Webinar: A Look into the Safety of Speed Limits and Work Zone Devices under MASH Testing - 5/14/2012
This free webinar is part of the Mid-America Transportation Center (MATC) webinar series and will be held on June 7, 2012 from 1:00 - 2:00 pm EDT. MATC researchers Dr. Ronald Faller and Dr. Ghulam Bham will feature their research and provide lessons learned about work zone sign crash standards and driver behavior.
New Web-Based Course on Work Zone Traffic Analysis - 5/7/2012
Strategies for Developing Work Zone Analyses is a new interactive, web-based training course from FHWA that provides an overview of how traffic analysis tools can be applied specifically to work zone analysis problems. The course provides information on the constraints and opportunities of work zone analysis associated with available transportation modeling approaches, factors to consider in selecting a modeling approach, and an exercise. There is no fee for taking the course during 2012.
FHWA Webinar on Work Zone Fatality Reduction Strategies - May 23 - 5/7/2012
During this webinar on May 23, 2012 from 1:00 - 3:00 pm EST, presenters from states that have seen a reduction in work zone fatalities, including North Carolina and California, will discuss work zone planning, management, and outreach efforts they have undertaken to enhance work zone safety that have likely contributed to the fatality reduction. They will also illustrate how it takes a combination of strategies to make work zones safer and will offer suggestions based on their experience on how other agencies can enhance work zone safety. The audience will have the opportunity to ask questions of the presenters. There is no cost to participate in this webinar and it is open to anyone who is interested. Advance registration is required.
Roadway Work Zone Safety and Health Alliance Renews Partnership - 5/1/2012
The Roadway Work Zone Safety and Health Partners works with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to reduce deaths and injuries in roadway construction zones. Recently members of the Roadway Work Zone Safety and Health Partners renewed their partnership with the alliance, reaffirming their commitment to making work zones safer. During the next two years, the alliance will develop and distribute educational materials aimed at preventing roadway worker injuries and deaths from construction vehicle runovers and backovers, as well as focus on outreach to non- or limited-English speaking workers.
I-90 Summer 2012 Construction Video - Washington State DOT Example - 5/1/2012
The Washington State DOT (WSDOT) developed a six-minute video providing motorists with information about upcoming construction projects that are part of the I-90 Snoqualmie Project. This project is located in a heavily traveled mountain pass between major population centers. The video provides project and trip planning information in a unique way through hand drawn animations and a voice-over that makes it easy for motorists to understand what is happening and why.
2012 National Work Zone Awareness Week - 4/26/2012
USDOT, State DOTs around the country, and partner organizations held events, made public announcements, and worked with the media throughout the week to recognize the 2012 National Work Zone Awareness Week and remind all to drive and work safely in work zones.
March/April Issue of FHWA Innovator Newsletter Now Available - 4/25/2012
FHWA's Innovator newsletter helps advance widespread implementation of innovations and technologies in the highway community and chronicle a nationwide movement to improve the way highways are built. The March/April 2012 issue includes articles on how several states are using self-propelled modular transporters for accelerated bridge construction (ABC); a new FHWA state-of-the practice manual on ABC; the use of temporary bypass bridges by Wisconsin DOT to complete a four-bridge reconstruction project in nearly half the time of conventional construction methods; the use of precast elements to build bridges faster; and how agencies are using scheduling software to manage construction programs and collaborate with contractor partners.
Massachusetts DOT Uses Accelerated Bridge Construction to Replace Bridge Over a Weekend - 4/25/2012
An article in the April 17, 2012 edition of the New York Times, entitled "Did Someone Order an Instant Bridge", describes how the Massachusetts DOT used accelerated bridge construction (ABC) techniques to replace the River Street Bridge in Boston over one weekend. MassDOT used self-propelled modular transporters to move the prefabricated new bridge into place, with work beginning on Friday evening and completed by Sunday afternoon. This project is one of numerous ABC projects for MassDOT, which replaced 14 bridges on Interstate 93 in 2011 over 10 weekends.
AASHTO Public Service Announcement for 2012 Work Zone Awareness Week - 4/19/2012
The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) has released a new public service announcement for the 2012 National Work Zone Awareness Week campaign. The video emphasizes the need to drive safely through work zones.
Australian Report on Work Zone Traffic Control Training and Accreditation - 4/18/2012
Austroads has prepared a report that explores establishing a national framework for the training and accreditation of personnel involved in work zone traffic management and control. The report identifies six functional roles and associated skill sets for personnel who develop, implement, and oversee work zone traffic management, as well as those who perform other duties in a work zone. The report also compares the framework against their current state and territory requirements and course offerings, and makes recommendations on how the framework could be implemented across Australia. This information may be of interest to State and local agencies in the United States as they develop and implement work zone training programs. The report is free after registering on the web site.
Web Site Offers One Stop Shop for Traveler Information in Western States - 4/16/2012
The One Stop Shop Web site was developed by the Western States Rural Transportation Consortium and covers all of California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. The site includes work zone information, as well as messages on changeable message signs, CCTV video, and information on incidents, weather, and chain control. A route planner shows the best way to get where you are going, including information on the altitude of each mountain pass you will travel through.
Winners of 2011 America's Transportation Awards - 4/9/2012
The America's Transportation Awards competition, sponsored by AASHTO, the American Automobile Association (AAA), and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, honors projects that came in ahead of schedule, under budget, or showed an excellent use of innovation. For 2011 the Grand Prize winner was the Florida Department of Transportation's massive reconstruction of the I-10/I-95 interchange, known locally as the Big I project. The project involved reconstructing 17 bridges, 21 ramps, and 25 lane miles built over and around traffic moving through one of the busiest interchanges in the State. FDOT used night time lane closures, construction of temporary ramps and roadways, and detours to local roads to manage impacts to motorists during the project. FDOT finished the project 6 months ahead of schedule, saving motorists from additional delays and reducing costs to taxpayers. In addition to the Grand Prize winner, nine other projects were recognized for outstanding work.
Focus Article on National Work Zone Awareness Week 2012 - 3/22/2012
An article in the March 2012 issue of FHWA Focus describes what several states are doing in honor of National Work Zone Awareness Week 2012, to be held the week of April 23, 2012. The article also provides information on FHWA's work zone safety resources.
Public Asked For Input on How to Reconstruct I-96 in Michigan - 3/7/2012
The Michigan Department of Transportation is asking motorists, businesses, and local leaders for their input on what traffic scenarios to consider when construction begins on I-96 from Newburgh Road to Telegraph Road in late 2013. Options being considered include a complete closure of the road that will last one construction season or limited closures and lane crossovers that could extend the project two to three years. Public input is being collected via a survey on the project web site.
New FHWA Manual Presents State of the Practice for Accelerated Bridge Construction - 2/29/2012
To assist transportation agencies and contractors in implementing accelerated bridge construction (ABC), FHWA has released a comprehensive manual, Accelerated Bridge Construction: Experience in Design, Fabrication, and Erection of Prefabricated Bridge Elements and Systems (Pub. No. FHWA-HIF-12-013). This manual presents information on ABC techniques, including foundation and wall elements, rapid embankment construction, prefabricated bridge elements and systems (PBES), structural placement methods, and fast track contracting. Also discussed is the applicability of these techniques to different bridge projects, such as the rehabilitation of existing bridges and the construction of new bridges. The manual also takes transportation agencies and contractors through the decisionmaking process for selecting appropriate ABC methods. The manual also features a case study highlighting the Utah DOT's experience in implementing ABC.
Theme and Kickoff Event Announced for 2012 National Work Zone Awareness Week - 2/29/2012
The theme for this year's National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) is "Don't Barrel Through Work Zones! Drive Smart to Arrive Alive". NWZAW will be held April 23-27, 2012, with the National Kickoff held at the Route 141 relocation project in Chesterfield, Missouri (St. Louis area).
2011 Work Zone Self Assessment Report Available - 2/17/2012
The national results for the 2011 Work Zone Mobility and Safety Self Assessment (WZSA) are now available. The national average score was 10.3 (out of 15), which is an increase over the 2010 average of 10.0. The WZSA is a tool to help States evaluate their work zone practices, and to help FHWA assess work zone practices nationally. The report shares practices occurring around the country for each of the questions.
Caltrans Asks Residents to Help Spread the Word About Upcoming Bay Bridge Closure - 2/16/2012
As part of the seismic upgrade of the Bay Bridge, Caltrans will be closing the Bay Bridge over President's Day Weekend. This closure is one of several weekend closures that have occurred throughout the project. Caltrans has used extensive outreach to warn the public well in advance of these closures. For the upcoming closure, they are asking Bay Area residents to help spread the word on blogs, local Web sites and through social media. Caltrans has created a series of plug-in banners for commuters to embed on their own blogs or web sites. It has also created an online animated simulator to help explain the changes.
Video: Innovation in Motion, Utah DOT's I-15 CORE Project - 2/16/2012
This AASHTO Transportation TV video showcases Utah DOT (UDOT) innovations to deliver a 24-mile, $1.725 billion Interstate 15 (I-15) improvement faster, safer, and cheaper. The video highlights four key solutions being used by UDOT on the I-15 CORE project: fixed-price, best-design, procurement; accelerated bridge construction, which included the move of a 3.8-million-pound bridge; a diverging diamond interchange; and UDOT's Innovative Strategic Communications and Public Outreach Program to keep stakeholders informed and engaged in new ways.
FHWA Webinar on Work Zone Training Program Development and Implementation - 1/18/2012
This free webinar will be held on February 1, 2012 from 1:00 - 3:00 pm EST. Representatives from New Hampshire, Louisiana, Virginia, and FHWA will discuss what they are doing in the area of work zone training. The audience will have the opportunity to ask questions of the presenters. There is no cost to participate in this webinar and it is open to anyone who is interested. Advance registration is required. Once you register you will receive an email with the login instructions. The only equipment needed to participate are a computer with an Internet connection, and a telephone (optional, as audio can be heard over the computer as well).
Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department Announces Know the RED Zones Campaign - 1/17/2012
The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) has announced the "Know the RED Zones" campaign to highlight areas with significantly reduced capacity during highway construction projects in the state. These areas are known as Red Zones. The goal of the campaign is to ensure travelers are aware of these Red Zones and to consider alternate routes, when available, before they get into the construction area. Alternatively, if they choose to drive through the project, the campaign aims to provide drivers with the latest information available for the safest possible travel. Travel tips and project information can be found on the RED Zones web site. Truckers will also be able to access restricted road and bridge information on alternate routes at this site.
Work Zone Fatalities Continue to Decrease - 1/17/2012
According to data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, work zone fatalities decreased from 2009 to 2010 by 13.6 percent. In 2009 there were 667 work zone fatalities while the number decreased to 576 fatalities in 2010. This continues the trend of decreasing work zone fatalities that has been occurring since fatalities peaked at 1,186 in 2002.
Work Zone Road User Costs - Concepts and Applications - 1/10/2012
Work zone road user costs (WZ RUC) provide the economic basis for quantifying adverse work zone impacts which can then be used for effective decision-making to improve work zone mobility and safety. This report provides practitioners with information on WZ RUC components, concepts, and their applications in selecting the preferred Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) alternatives, project delivery/contracting strategies, and benefit-cost analysis. Step by step instructions are provided for key computations. Three "real-world" case studies from the Highways for LIFE program are presented to demonstrate the applications of WZ RUCs.
Webinar on Accelerated Bridge Construction - 1/5/2012
TRB and Florida International University are sponsoring a webinar on January 17, 2012, from 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. EST that will explore a project conducted by TRB's second Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP 2) that focuses on accelerated bridge construction (ABC). The webinar will also discuss latest happenings in ABC in the US and abroad. There is no fee to register for the webinar, and one professional development hour will be provided.
