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Library of Resources to Improve Roadway Work Zone Safety for All Roadway Users

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Publication

Updated Capacity Values for Short-Term Freeway Work Zone Lane Closures

Author/Presenter: Krammes, Raymond A.; Lopez, Gustavo O.
Abstract:

Recommendations on estimating the capacities of short-term freeway work zone lane closures are presented. The recommendations are based on 45 hr of capacity counts at 33 work zones in Texas between 1987 and 1991. These new data indicate average capacities for short-term freeway work zone lane closures from three lanes to one lane and from two lanes to one lane that are significantly higher than older values reported in the 1985 Highway Capacity Manual. A base capacity value of 1,600 passenger cars per hour per lane is recommended for all short-term freeway work zone lane closure configurations. Adjustments are recommended for the effects of the intensity of work activity, the percentage of heavy vehicles in the traffic stream, and the presence of entrance ramps near the beginning of the lane closure. It is recommended that the new base capacity value and adjustments be used in lieu of the current procedures in the 1985 Highway Capacity Manual.

Source: Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board
Volume: 1442
Publisher: Transportation Research Board
Publication Date: 1994
Full Text URL: Link to URL
Publication Types: Books, Reports, Papers, and Research Articles
Topics: Lane Closure; Short-term Stationary; Work Zone Capacity; Work Zones

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