Work Zone Speed Management

Work Zone Speed Management

This synthesis documents information regarding the current state of practice for work zone speed management. The report compiles data, procedures, techniques, and technical issues related to observing and comparing work zone speeds. The speed management measures have been organized into four categories: engineering, operational, enforcement, and public education and outreach. Information included in this study was acquired through a review of the literature, two surveys of state department of transportation representatives in all states, a compilation of state agency public information campaigns, and follow-up interviews with select survey respondents from several U.S. states and one Canadian province.

Synthesis of Practices for Work Zone Speed Management

Speeding in work zones is one of the most common traffic violations observed by road builders and road maintenance crews. It creates an unsafe environment for road workers and all types of road users. This synthesis is intended to help address this situation by reviewing work zone speed management efforts in Canada and the United States. The report provides an overview of technologies and methods for managing speed in work zones, with topics ranging from posted speed limit reductions and narrowing lanes to portable variable message signs and enforcement. In addition, the report discusses other methods for speed management, including merge control, driver and worker education, and real-time traffic information systems. The report also provides a number of conclusions and recommendations based on the synthesis, which identify some of the key problems and solutions.

Symposium on Work Zone Traffic Control. Proceedings. Final Report