Operation Big Switch: Successful Implementation of an Express Lane Concept to Manage Freeway Traffic During a Major Construction Phase

As work progressed on the $200 million reconstruction and expansion effort on the U.S. 59 Southwest Freeway in Houston, it was recognized that it was possible for each contractor to concurrently complete Phase 2 and for the traffic shift from this phase to Phase 3 to occur simultaneously. A traffic control plan was adopted to close all entrance and exit ramps, close the outside main lane (dedicating it as a work zone), and maintain express traffic on the remaining two main lanes. The public information and traffic management measures that were implemented during this project are discussed. Results of the strategy are discussed, and conclusions are presented.