Highway debris represents a traffic safety problem that requires a prompt response from state or local transportation agencies. The most common practice for debris removal currently is for agency personnel to leave their vehicles and remove the debris by hand in the case of large debris (tires, lumber, freight loss, rock fall) or to sweep traveled lanes shoulders, or intersections in the case of crashes, mechanical failure, or embankment erosion. This exposes agency workers to safety risks, especially on high-speed and/or high-volume roadways. Currently, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has no widely distributed formal guidelines for safely and effectively removing debris from the roadway.
The study found that FAST systems have demonstrated the potential to reduce the number of crashes and reduce the cost of winter maintenance activities, if sited at appropriate locations (e.g., high-traffic-volume ice-prone ramps). However, improved installation techniques and involvement of maintenance crews during FAST installation are necessary to further increase the cost-effectiveness of a FAST system deployment. Extra effort will be made in sharing the information gained from this research study by focusing on CDOT personnel involved in planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of FAST systems.
The advent of solar energy utilization in highway infrastructure around the country has been increasing in recent years. Right of Ways (ROWs) have several advantages for energy development such as the existing electrical infrastructure aligned with the major highways, a secured boundary, and easy maintenance access. To understand the potential impacts on driver safety, environmental resources, and maintenance operations, case studies are presented from national and international projects. Factors associated risk impacts are analyzed qualitatively as well as quantitatively. Mitigation measures are recommended to minimize the undesirable impacts in the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of solar array.
Internally cured concrete has been rapidly emerging over the last decade as an effective way to improve the performance of concrete. Internal curing (IC) holds promise for producing concrete with an increased resistance to early-age cracking and enhanced durability. It is a simple and effective way to cure concrete.
This study is the evaluation of two thin bonded epoxy overlays. These two products were compared on the basis of physical properties, including mean texture depth, surface friction, bond strength, ability to stop chloride intrusion, and anti-icing properties, as well as traffic safety and cost. Both overlays worked as intended when they were initially applied on the bridge decks. Mean texture depth and friction testing have shown that they both provide a durable wearing surface with good traction.
