Light Use Study For Vertical Channelization Devices

Light Use Study for Vertical Channelization Devices

Although the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) does not require the use of warning lights on channelization devices, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has historically required their use on all traffic control devices used at nighttime construction zones. This report documents research done for ADOT on the use of steady-burn warning lights on vertical panels in roadway construction zones. Specific tasks included a review of the requirements and policies of the departments of transportation of other states regarding the use of flashing warning lights on traffic control devices, a review of ADOT's construction zone requirements, a search for relevant research, reviews of construction zone accident reports and incident logs, and interviews with ADOT field construction staff regarding the past performance of the Ultra Panels (Type III sheeting) with and without steady-burn warning lights.

Human Factors Opportunities to Improve Ohio's Transportation System

Assessment of Channelizing Device Effectiveness on High Speed/high Volume Roadways

Part 6 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) describes several types of channelizing devices that can be used to warn road users and guide them through work zones; these devices include cones, tubular markers, vertical panels, drums, barricades, and temporary raised islands. On higher speed/volume roadways, drums and /or vertical panels have been popular choices in many states, due to their formidable appearance and the enhanced visibility they provide when compared to standard cones. However, due to their larger size, drums also require more effort and storage space to transport, deploy and retrieve. Recent editions of the MUTCD have introduced new devices for channelizing; specifically of interest for this study is a taller (greater than 36 inches) but thinner cone. While this new device does not offer a comparable target value to that of drums, the new devices are significantly larger than standard cones and they offer improved stability as well. In addition, these devices are more easily deployed and stored than drums and they cost less. Further, for applications previously using both drums and tall cones, the use of tall cones only provides the ability for delivery and setup by a single vehicle. An investigation of the effectiveness of the new channelizing devices provides a reference for states to use in selecting appropriate traffic control for high speed, high volume applications, especially for short term or limited duration exposures. This study includes a synthesis of common practices by state DOT's, as well as daytime and nighttime field observations of driver reactions using video detection equipment. The results of this study are promising for the day and night performance of the new tall cones, comparing favorably to the performance of drums when used for channelizing in tapers. The evaluation showed no statistical difference in merge distance and location, shy distance, or operating speed in either daytime or nighttime conditions. The study should provide a valuable resource for state DOTs to utilize in selecting the most effective channelizing device for use on high speed/high volume roadways where timely merging by drivers is critical to safely and mobility.