Rapid Response Techniques for Disasters Near Roadway Work Zones: Expedient Roads and Trails Overview

Work zone traffic management requires consideration of both normal conditions and potential emergencies. When a road or bridge construction closure coincides with an adverse event (such as a severe storm, earthquake, or forest fire), it is sometimes possible to handle the situation by reopening traffic lanes in the main construction area. In other cases, it may be necessary to build a temporary route quickly. Expedient roads and trails typically serve one or more of the following functions:

• Allow first responders to reach a stricken area
• Allow residents to evacuate the area
• Allow traffic to bypass the area
• Restore access while routes with incomplete construction or major damage are being repaired

This brochure provides a high-level overview of some techniques for building emergency roads quickly. It describes typical elements of the roadway system and the process for establishing an expedient roadway.