Maximizing Investments in Work Zone Safety in Oregon

Due to the federal stimulus program and the 2009 Jobs and Transportation Act, the Oregon Department of
Transportation (ODOT) anticipates that a large increase in highway construction will occur. There is the expectation that, since transportation safety grant funds may not increase and due to the lack of police enforcement resources, ODOT will need to be more strategic in planning how the available funds will be used. Questions regarding the allocation of safety grants among enforcement, equipment, and public education, and the optimal use of funds within each category, are being asked.

Thus, a research project was initiated to investigate methods for maximizing work zone safety investments. The goal of this research project is to:

• • provide guidance for maximizing ODOT’s investments in work zone enforcement;
  • determine if additional coordination between the work zone enforcement program and the traffic control planning and work zone management efforts would enhance the programs; and
  • review the effectiveness of the work zone safety public education program both in terms of message and media and determine if other approaches should be considered.