A Guide to Urban Work Zone Temporary Traffic Control

Author/Presenter: Datta, Tapan; Savolainen, Peter; McAvoy, Deborah; Gates, Timothy; Kay, Jonathan; Nicita, Nicholas; Parajuli, Sahadev
Abstract:

This guide describes the characteristics that are specific to urban work zones and provides possible mitigation strategies to address site-specific safety issues. Urban work zones present unique challenges that are not addressed specifically in great detail in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The urban roadway environment encompasses many distinctive characteristics which need to be taken into consideration. A few characteristics to be noted are high traffic demand and low travel speeds, frequent intersections and driveway accesses, right of way and space limitations, on street parking and roadside access, roadway geometry, traffic control issues, non-motorized transportation facilities, bus stops and transit access. In addition, special events and compliance with the requirements of “Significant Projects” which require attention must be considered.   This document includes example plans and a table that highlights the important issues regarding urban work zones and feasible mitigation strategies.