Evaluation of low cost traffic calming for rural communities : phase II.

PDFTech ReportIHRB Project TR-630authRural areasSmall townsSpeed controlHighway traffic controlCountermeasuresSpeed signsTraffic calmingTraffic islandsColorUnited StatesIowa. Dept. of TransportationMidwest Transportation ConsortiumHallmark, ShaunaKnickerbocker, SkylarHawkins, NealIowa State University. Center for Transportation Research and EducationUnited States. Federal Highway AdministrationNTL-HIGHWAY/ROAD TRANSPORTATION-HIGHWAY/ROAD TRANSPORTATIONNTL-OPERATIONS AND TRAFFIC CONTROLS-Traffic Control DevicesNTL-SAFETY AND SECURITY-Highway SafetyNTL-SAFETY AND SECURITY-Speed LimitsUS Transportation CollectionThe main goal of the research described in this report was to evaluate countermeasures that agencies can use to reduce speeds as drivers enter rural communities located on high-speed roadways. The objectives of this study were as follows:Identify and summarize countermeasures used to manage speeds in transition zones\uef\u201a\ub7 Demonstrate the effectiveness of countermeasures that are practical for high- to low-speed transition zones\uef\u201a\ub7 Acquire additional information about countermeasures that may show promise but lack sufficient evidence of effectiveness\uef\u201a\ub7 Develop an application toolbox to assist small communities in selecting appropriate transition zones and effective countermeasures for entrances to small rural communitiesThe team solicited small communities that were interested in participating in the Phase II study and several communities were also recommended. The treatments evaluated were selected by carefully considering traffic-calming treatments that have been used effectively in other countries for small rural communities, as well as the information gained from the first phase of the project. The treatments evaluated are as follows:\uef\u201a\ub7 Transverse speed bars\uef\u201a\ub7 Colored entrance treatment\uef\u201a\ub7 Temporary island\uef\u201a\ub7 Radar-activated speed limit sign\uef\u201a\ub7 Speed feedback signThe toolbox publication and four focused tech briefs also cover the results of this work