Field Evaluation of Work-Zone Automated Speed Enforcement Equipment and Traffic Monitoring Devices

Speeding is a significant contributor to a significant portion of highway collisions. For work zones in particular, the speeding problem is compounded by on-site road re-configuration, narrowed lanes, or poor visibility. Automated speed enforcement is one potential solution to reduce the number of collisions in roadway zones where speeding is a persistent problem. This paper describes a recent study that is designed to assess the technical performance of work-zone automated speed enforcement (ASE) equipment in the field. Several traffic monitoring systems were field tested with an ASE system at a rural two-lane highway. The ASE equipment and other devices were found to detect 2-5% of passing vehicles to travel in excess of 65 mph in a highway with a posted speed limit of 55 mph. The outcome of this study, in conjunction with the experience and knowledge gained by other agencies in their development and implementation of work-zone and general ASE systems will provide valuable inputs for future safety projects.