Estimated State Planning & Research Program      
Part II – Research

Arizona Department of Transportation
Arizona Transportation Research Center
2739 East Washington Street
Phoenix Arizona 85034-1422
Phone (602) 712-3130 Fax (602) 712-3400

Mailing Address:
206 S. 17th Ave.
Mail Drop 075R
Phoenix AZ 85007

In cooperation with the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration

SPR-PL-1(67)

Fiscal Year 2005
(July 1, 2004 to June 30, 2005)

 

Overview
Budgets
Statistics
Implementation
Projects by Emphasis Area

SPR#

Project Title
Environment

495

A Field Study of Particulate Emissions

496

Effective Control Measures at High Particulate Pollution Areas

540

Evaluation of Wildlife/Vehicle Collision Mitigation, SR-260

543

Strategies to Integrate Environmental Stewardship into ADOT's Business

555

Determination of Atmospheric Effects on Highway Noise Propagation

572

Identification and Evaluation of Innovative Noise Barrier Designs

576

US-93 Big Horn Sheep/Highway Collision Mitigation Study

581

Air Quality Effects of High Sound Walls in Urban Areas

584

Survey of Traffic Noise Reduction Products, Materials and Technology

587

Evaluation of Salvage and Replanted Native Plants on ADOT Projects

588

Effectiveness of Bighorn Sheep Underpasses, SR-68

589

Determination of 404 Permit Requirements and Habitat Restoration Requirements
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)

473

Arizona Intelligent Vehicle Research

512

ITS Traffic Data Master System

557

Railroad & Highway Crossing Cooperative Signal Control

561

Transportation Communications Interoperability Phase 1 – Needs Evaluation

562

ITS Program Acceptance in Elderly Communities

569

Transportation Communications Interoperability Phase 2 – Resource Evaluation

570

Rural ITS Progress Study – Arizona 2004

585

Evaluation of Snowplow-Simulator Driver Training

595

Real-Time Adaptive Ramp Metering: Simulation and Implementation
Maintenance

371

Maintenance Cost Effectiveness Study

459

Environmentally Acceptable Cold Mix for Statewide Use

494

Enhancing the Pavement Management System

500

Aggregate Sources in Northern Arizona

520

Maintenance Repair Procedures for Bridge Decks

533

Development of Materials for Repairing AR-ACFC Surfaces

536

Improved Snow Plow Headlight Visibility and Reduced Driver Fatigue
Materials and Construction

396

LTPP and Other Test Section Management and Evaluation

402

Development of Performance Related Specifications for Asphalt Pavements

460

Evaluation of Cold In-Place Recycle Methods

471

Specific Apps. of Shotcrete to Enhance Rock Mass Stability

491

Cost Benefit of Continued Pavement Preservation Strategies

498

Warranty Specifications

518

Reducing the Development Cycle Time for Construction Process

524

Mix Design and Product Specifications for Asphalt Rubber Concrete

574

Use of NDT Equipment for Construction Quality Control Of Hot Mix Asphalt Pavements

575

Concrete Aggregate Durability Study

577

Pavement Noise Study

590

Performance Related Pay Factors for Asphalt Concrete
Planning and Administration

528

Damage Done to Arizona highways by Overweight Vehicles

530

Development of New Transit Systems in Rural Arizona

534

Developing an Electronic “Signature” Process for ADOT

535

Safety Information Exchange System for the Nogales Port of Entry

544

Service Strategies to Reduce Customer Time in MVD Field Offices

546

Driver Education Impact on Safety

547

Arizona Statewide Safety Project Analysis Model

550

Automated Traffic Law Enforcement

551

Speed Limit Study

553

Driver License Manual Best Practices

559

Comprehensive Automated Driver’s License Testing System: The Visual Acuity Test

563

Port Runners – Impact and Solutions

564

Modeling the Impact of Maintenance Funding on Level-of-Service Measurements

565

Grand Canyon National Park Visitor Transportation Survey

567

Remedies for Driver Error

568

Arizona Highways Magazine’s Impact on Tourism

578

ADOT Dyed Diesel Program

579

Improving PreDesign and Environmental Public Information

580

Barcode Inventory System

583

Open Source Software Study
Structures

493

Bridge Foundation Design Parameters, SGC Bearing Materials

510

Performance of Various Types of Bridge Deck Joints

538

High Performance Concrete for Bridge Structures in Arizona

541

Strategies and Retrofit Schemes for Concrete Bridge Decks in Arizona

586

Investigation of Earth Pressure on Concrete Cantilever Retaining Wall for Variable Quality Backfill
Traffic and Safety

537

Safety Related Data Management

556

Right Turn Control Study: Yield Signs or Signals for Off-Ramps at Single-Point Urban Traffic Interchanges

558

High-Risk Crash Site Identification in Arizona

582

Multimodal Optimization of Urban Freeway Corridors

591

High Crash Risk Unsignalized Intersections

592

Building Tribal Traffic Safety Capacity

593

Development and Implementation of a Regional Safety Management Database

Research Support Programs
Pooled Fund Projects
Experimental Projects
Alternatively Funded Projects
Research Publications Catalog

 

Glossary of Acronyms

AASHTO American Association Of State Highway & Transportation Officials
AC Asphaltic Concrete
ACFC Asphalt Concrete Friction Course
ACMS Advanced Construction and Maintenance Systems
ADEQ Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
ADOT Arizona Department of Transportation
AHRRC Arizona Hospitality Research and Resource Center
AHS Automated Highway Systems
APL Approved Products List
AR-AC Asphalt-Rubber Asphalt Concrete
AR-ACFC Asphalt-Rubber/Asphalt-Concrete Friction Course
ARS Arizona Revised Statutes
ASU Arizona State University
ATC Automatic Traffic Counter
ATIS Advanced Traveler Information System
ATRC Arizona Transportation Research Center
BYU Brigham Young University
Caltrans California Department of Transportation
CCTV Closed-Circuit TV
CIE Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage
CRM Crumb Rubber Modifier
CVISN Commercial Vehicle Information Systems Network
DOT Department Of Transportation
DPS Department of Public Safety
ENTERPRISE Evaluation of New Technologies for Roads Program Initiatives in Safety and Efficiency
FHWA Federal Highway Administration
FM Frequency modulation
FWD Falling Weight Deflectometer
FY Fiscal Year
G4 A type of guard rail
GCNP Grand Canyon National Park
GIS Geographic Information System
GOHS Governor's Office of Highway Safety
GPS General Pavement Studies
GPS Global Positioning Satellite
GTSAC Governor's Traffic Safety Advisory Council
HAR Highway Advisory Radio
HCRS Highway Condition Reporting System
HMA Hot Mix Asphalt
HMAC Hot Mix Asphaltic Concrete
HOV High Occupancy Vehicle
HPC High Performance Concrete
HPS High-Pressure Sodium
IDMS Integrated Document Management System
IES Illuminating Engineering Society
ISPMMS Integrated Sign and Pavement Marking Management System
ITD Intermodal Transportation Division
ITEP ITS, Traffic & Safety, Environment, Planning
ITG Information Technology Group
ITS Intelligent Transportation System
IV Intelligent Vehicle
JLBC Joint Legislative Budget Committee
JPA Joint Project Agreement
LOS Level Of Service
LPS Low-Pressure Sodium
LTAP Local Technical Assistance Program
LTPP Long Term Pavement Performance
MAG Maricopa Association of Governments
MH Metal Halide
MOE Measures Of Effectiveness
MP Milepost
MSE Mechanically-Stabilized Earth
MSM Materials, Structures, and Maintenance
MUTCD Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices
MVD Motor Vehicle Division
N/A Not Applicable
NAU Northern Arizona University
NCAT National Center for Asphalt Technology
NCHRP National Cooperative Highway Research Program
NOAA National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration
NTCIP National Transportation Communications for Intelligent Transportation Systems Protocol
NTPEP National Transportation Product Evaluation Program
OGFC Open-Graded Friction Courses
P3 Pollution Prevention Plan
PC Personal Computer
PIJ Project Investment Justification
PM10 Particulate Matter less than 10 microns in diameter
PM2.5 Particulate Matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter
PMS Pavement Management System
PRIDE Product Resource Investment Deployment And Evaluation
R&D Research & Development
R/W Right-Of-Way
RFP Request For Proposal
RV Recreational Vehicle
RWIS Roadway Weather Information System
SGC Sand-Gravel-Cobbles
SHRP Strategic Highway Research Program
SPR State Planning & Research
SPS Specific Pavement Studies
SPUI Single-Point Urban Interchange
SR State Route
TAC Technical Advisory Committee
TBD To be determined
TEA-21 Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century
TI Traffic Interchange
TNM Traffic Noise Model
TPD Transportation Planning Division
TRB Transportation Research Board
TTI Texas Transportation Institute
UDOT Utah Department of Transportation
VMS Variable Message Sign
VOC Volatile Organic Compound
VSL Variable Speed Limit
WASHTO Western Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials
WIM Weigh-In-Motion
WSDOT Washington State Department of Transportation

 

 

Overview

The purpose of the Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) is to provide a catalyst for the continuous process improvement of the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). This responsibility includes the formal development of a focused research program as well as providing the forum for improvement through effective technology transfer, and fostering change in areas beyond the domain of research. To accomplish this ATRC uses the expertise of both public and private partners. This includes the University System of Arizona and the consultant community.

This ATRC annual report provides descriptions and progress updates for projects in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2005 Estimated State Planning & Research (SPR) Program, Part II. A total of 72 projects and 12 research support programs are included in this year's program: Sixty-two projects and 12 support programs have been carried over from prior-years' programs. There are 10 new projects (SPR numbers 585 through 595). Fifteen project reports were completed during Fiscal Year 2004. These are listed in the table below. Two projects-479 Evaluation/Prioritization of Locations for Upgrading Highway Appurtenances and 571 Reducing ADOT's Legal Liabilities-were cancelled.

SPR#

Completed Projects in FY '04

Manager

473(3) Arizona Intelligent Vehicle Research Program - Phase Two (b): 2001-2002 Owen
473(4) Arizona Intelligent Vehicle Research Program - Phase Three: 2002-2003 Owen
474 Development of Statewide GIS-Based Feature Inventory System Scofield
509 Hazardous Materials Inventory Status and Action Plan Kombe
519 PM-10 Research for Dust Mitigation Kombe
522 Roadway Lighting: An Investigation and Evaluation of Three Different Light Sources Owen
525 Evaluation of Roadway Weather Information System (RWIS) Owen
527 Measurement tools for assessing MVD port-of-entry performance Semmens
535(1) CVISN Safety Information Exchange, Nogales Port of Entry-Phase 1 Semmens
545 Roundabout Evaluation- Happy Valley Road and I-17 Gutierrez
548 Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers Semmens
549 Options for Improving Compliance with Vehicle Registration Laws Semmens
552 HOV Lanes: Issues and Options for Enforcement Semmens
560 Improving Construction Communication Semmens
566 Alternative Modes as an Air Quality Mitigation Strategy Semmens

Further information on these completed projects may be obtained from the project managers. Copies of the completed reports may be obtained from the ATRC Librarian. Telephone numbers and e-mail addresses for ATRC staff are shown below.

ATRC STAFF

Phone numbers

e-mail addresses

Manager
Frank Darmiento

602-712-3134

fdarmiento@azdot.gov

Project Managers
Rosendo Gutierrez

602-712-3132

rosendog@azdot.gov

Estomih (Tom) Kombe

602-712-3135

ekombe@azdot.gov

Steve Owen

602-712-6910

stowen@azdot.gov

John Semmens

602-712-3137

jsemmens@azdot.gov

NEW STAFF (Vacant)
Librarian
Dale Steele

602-712-3138

dsteele@azdot.gov

Administrative Assistants
Crystal Phipps

602-712-3130

cphipps@azdot.gov

Ben Riddle (PRIDE Program Engineering Assistant)

602-712-6430

briddle@azdot.gov

602-712-6346

FAX

602-712-3400

 

Departmental Oversight of ATRC

The ADOT Research Steering Committee provides broad policy guidance to the research program. Its responsibilities include assuring adequate resources for research activities, allocating resources, and proposing specific projects, as necessary. The Steering Committee guides ADOT’s research needs by identifying emphasis areas and overseeing the allocation of resources. When appropriate, the Steering Committee may also direct the implementation of research results.

The ADOT Research Council oversees the research effort. Responsibilities include advising the ATRC, setting research priorities, and approving funding for studies.

Steering Committee and Research Council members are shown in the following tables.

Research Steering Committee Members

Name Mail Drop Group
John Bogert 100A Chief of Staff
Debra Brisk 100A Deputy Director
Dale Buskirk 300B Director, Transportation Planning Division
Michael Ortega 100A State Engineer
Robert Hollis 005R Federal Highway Administration
Victor Mendez 100A ADOT Director
Stacey Stanton 500M Director-Motor Vehicle Division

 

Research Council

Name Group
Julio Alvarado Construction Group
Dale Buskirk Director, Transportation Planning Div.
Frank Darmiento – chairman Transportation Research Center
Jim Delton Materials Group
Jim Dorre Maintenance Group
Rick Duarte Environmental Planning & Enhancement
Doug Forstie Deputy State Engineer
Ruth Halikowski Motor Vehicle Division
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration
John Harper Flagstaff District Engineer
Steve Jimenez Valley Project Management
Dan Lance Deputy State Engineer
John Louis Assistant State Engineer
Sam Maroufkhani Deputy State Engineer
Jean Nehme Bridge Group
Tom Parlante Traffic Engineering Group
Rick Powers Globe District Engineer
Joe Throckmorton CIO - Director, Info. Technology Group
Shannon Wilhelmsen Communications and Community Partnerships
Tim Wolfe Transportation Technology Group

 

Financial and statistical data are presented in the SPR Program Budgets and Program Statistics sections. The amount of new funding for Fiscal Year 2005 is estimated at approximately $2,600,500. A total of about $5,084,674 is available in funds carried forward from prior programs.

The Implementation section briefly highlights Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) actions to implement research results.

The Progress by Projects section contains individual project reports for SPR projects in each of the following areas: Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), Traffic and Safety, Maintenance, Materials and Construction, Planning and Administration, Environmental, and Structures. Information regarding other types of projects may be found in the Research Support Programs, Pooled Fund Programs, and Experimental Projects sections, respectively.

Also included in this Report is the June 2004 Publications Catalog for the Arizona Transportation Research Center, which lists all of the currently available research reports published by ATRC.

 

Budgets


The following tables summarize the financial status of each of the ongoing ATRC projects. Each project is identified by number and title. Funds carried over from previous years and funds to be provided by the fiscal year 2005 allocation are estimated for each project. Each project is classified as fitting into one of the following categories: E: Environment, I: Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), M: Maintenance, MC: Materials and Construction, P: Planning and Administration, R: Research Support, ST: Structures, and T: Traffic and Safety.

State Planning & Research Funded Program

SPR#

Project Title
Area1

Carry Over2

FY05 Funds

110

ATRC Library Resources

R

26,542

20,000

111

Transportation Research Board Correlation/AASHTO3

R

0

109,320

112

Administration of Research

R

113,549

40,000

113

Support Staff Salaries

R

76,317

125,000

114

Experimental Projects/Technical Editing

R

11,000

15,000

116

PRIDE

R

131,798

65,000

117

Local Technology Assistance Program

R

69,329

68,000

120

Pooled Fund Studies3, 4

R

515,000

50,000

123

Emphasis Area

R

1,000

124

Research Traffic Data Collection

R

143,000

100,000

125

NCHRP3

R

409,676

600,000

127

Student/Small Budget Research

63,000

100,000

371

Maintenance Cost Effectiveness Study

M

71,107

396

LTPP and Other Test Section Management and Evaluation

MC

79,620

402

Development of Performance Related Specifications for Asphalt Pavements

MC

85,081

459

Environmentally Acceptable Cold Mix for Statewide Use

M

124,614

460

Evaluation of Cold In-Place Recycle Methods

MC

36,056

471

Specific Apps. of Shotcrete to Enhance Rock Mass Stability

MC

35,000

473

Arizona Intelligent Vehicle Research

I

14,826

491

Cost Benefit of Continued Pavement Preservation Strategies

MC

84,530

493

Bridge Foundation Design Parameters, SGC Bearing Materials

ST

34,212

494

Enhancing the Pavement Management System

M

207,600

495

A Field Study of Particulate Emissions

E

5,312

496

Effective Control Measures at High Particulate Pollution Areas

E

61,337

498

Warranty Specifications

MC

0

500

Aggregate Sources in Northern Arizona

M

0

510

Performance of Various Types of Bridge Deck Joints

ST

17,960

512

ITS Traffic Data Master System

I

94,507

518

Reducing Development Cycle Time for Construction Process

MC

34,549

520

Maintenance Repair Procedures for Bridge Decks

M

19,639

524

Mix Design and Product Specifications for Asphalt Rubber Concrete

MC

32,302

528

Damage Done to Arizona Highways by Overweight Vehicles

P

9,500

530

Development of New Transit Systems in Rural Arizona

P

9,595

533

Development of Materials for Repairing AR-ACFC Surfaces

M

0

534

Developing an Electronic “Signature” Process for ADOT.

P

37,854

535

Safety Information Exchange System for the Nogales Port of Entry

P

240,000

536

Improved Snow Plow Headlight Visibility and Reduced Driver Fatigue

M

50,000

537

Safety Related Data Management

T

150,000

538

High Performance Concrete for Bridge Structures in Arizona

ST

149,021

540

Wildlife/Vehicle Collision Mitigation

E

292,000

541

Strategies and Retrofit Schemes for Concrete Bridge Decks in Arizona

ST

149,921

543

Strategies to Integrate Environmental Stewardship into ADOT's Business

E

45,000

544

Service Strategies to Reduce Customer Time in MVD Field Offices

P

12,000

546

Driver Education Impact on Safety

P

15,007

547

Arizona Statewide Safety Project Analysis Model

P

11,291

550

Automated Traffic Law Enforcement

P

9,000

551

Speed Limit Study

P

7,319

553

Driver License Manual Best Practices

P

11,000

555

Atmospheric Effects on Highway Noise Propagation

E

103,000

556

Right Turn Control Study: Yield Signs or Signals for Off-Ramps at Single-Point Urban Traffic Interchanges

T

18,163

557

Railroad & Highway Crossing Cooperative Signal Control

I

70,467

558

High-Risk Crash Site Identification in Arizona

T

39,232

559

Comprehensive Automated Driver’s License Testing System: The Visual Acuity Test

P

95,862

561

Transportation Communications Interoperability Phase 1 – Needs Evaluation

I

4,000

562

ITS Program Acceptance in Elderly Communities

I

9,538

563

Port Runners – Impact and Solutions

P

7,500

564

Modeling the Impact of Maintenance Funding on Level-of-Service Measurements

P

15,000

565

Grand Canyon National Park Visitor Transportation Survey

P

8,250

567

Remedies for Driver Error

P

12,000

568

Arizona Highways Magazine’s Impact on Tourism

P

17,000

569

Transportation Communications Interoperability Phase 2 – Resource Evaluation

I

150,000

570

Rural ITS Progress Study – Arizona 2004

I

55,200

572

Identification & Evaluation: Innovative Noise Barrier Designs

E

50,000

574

Use of NDT Equipment for Construction Quality Control of Hot Mix Asphalt Pavements

MC

135,000

575

Concrete Aggregate Durability Study

MC

25,000

576

US-93 Big Horn Sheep/Highway Collision Mitigation Study

E

185,000

577

Pavement Noise Study 5

MC

0

99,000

578

ADOT Dyed Diesel Program

P

15,000

579

Improving PreDesign and Environmental Public Information

P

15,000

580

Barcode Inventory System

P

15,000

581

Air Quality Effects of High Sound Walls in Urban Areas

E

15,000

582

Multimodal Optimization of Urban Freeway Corridors

T

15,000

583

Open Source Software Study

P

15,000

584

Survey of Traffic Noise Reduction Products, Materials and Technology

MC

10,000

585

Snowplow Simulator Training Evaluation

I

100,000

586

Investigation of Earth Pressure on Concrete Cantilever Retaining Wall for Variable Quality Backfill

ST

150,000

587

Evaluation of Salvage and Replanted Native Plants on ADOT Projects

E

75,000

588

A Study of the Effectiveness of Bighorn Sheep Underpasses on State Route 68

E

175,000

589

Determination of 404 Permit Requirements and Habitat Restoration Requirements

E

125,000

590

Performance Related Pay Factors for Asphalt Concrete

MC

50,000

591

High Crash Risk Unsignalized Intersections

T

50,000

592

Building Tribal Traffic Safety Capacity

T

110,000

593

Development and Implementation of a Regional Safety Management Database

T

122,000

595

Real-time Adaptive Ramp Metering

I

100,000

999

Special Projects/Contingency

--

87,491

252,180

TOTALS

5,084,674

2,600,500

 

Table Notes:

1 Abbreviations under Area refer to program areas. The letters are defined as follows – E: Environment, I: Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), M: Maintenance, MC: Materials and Construction, P: Planning and Administration, R: Research Support, ST: Structures, T: Traffic and Safety

2 Includes amounts newly transferred into projects from earlier program years’ contingency funds. All carryover amounts for these and other projects are as of 07/01/04.

3 Funded with 100% Federal funds.

4 FY2005 funding includes a set aside of $25,000 for new pooled fund projects. Based on FHWA pooled fund data the following carry over amounts are also shown: $5,000 for TPF-5(036), Maintenance Quality Assurance Peer Exchange; $80,000 for TPF-5(049), Canamex; $105,000 for TPF-5(037), Southeast Superpave Center; $25,000 for TPF-5(085), Transportation Security Plan; $5,000 for TPF-5(036), Transportation Asset Management Research Program; $350,000 for TPF-5(004), Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) Specific Pavements Study (SPS) Traffic Data Collection; and $80,000 for SPR-2(207), Transportation Management Center Pooled Fund Study.

5 Funded in FY2004 with $364,000 in SPR Planning funds. Future years will be funded with Research funds as follows: FY2005 - $99,000; FY2008 - $97,000; FY2010 - $97,000.


Alternatively Funded Projects

ID# Project Title Area1

Amount

SPR-594

Flat-Tailed Horned Lizard Highway Crossing Study

E

118,400

AZ-596

Evaluation of Photo Radar for Freeway Enforcement

I

60,000

1 Abbreviations under Area refer to program areas. The letters are defined as follows – E: Environment, I: Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS).

 


BUDGET STATISTICS

There are 84 projects accounting for a budget of $7,685,174 in the program. The distribution of these projects by category is shown below.

Category

Number of Projects

Budget

Environment

11  

$1,131,649

ITS

9  

598,538

Maintenance

7  

472,960

Materials & Construction

13  

706,138

Planning & Administration

20  

578,178

Research Support

12  

2,852,531

Structures

5  

501,114

Traffic & Safety

7  

504,395

Contingency

0  

339,671

Totals

84  

$7,685,174


2005image-1.gif (4091 bytes)

 

2005image-2.gif (4464 bytes)

 

COMPLETED PROJECT STATISTICS

There were 15 project completions accounting for a budget of $955,000 during FY 2004 (July 1, 2003 through June 30, 2004). The distribution of these projects by emphasis area is shown below.

Category

Number of Projects

Budget

Environment

2

$ 225,000

ITS

3

$ 110,000

Maintenance

1

$ 175,000

Planning & Administration

7

$ 235,000

Traffic & Safety

2

$ 210,000

Totals

15

$ 955,000

 

2005image-3.gif (4029 bytes)


2005image-5.gif (4010 bytes)

 

 

State Planning & Research (SPR) Implementation

The following list highlights implementation activities undertaken during Fiscal Year 2004:

SPR#

Project

473 Arizona Intelligent Vehicle Research: 2003-04 was the first full winter of operations for the project’s seven research snowplows. The deployment of on-board warning systems was not complete until February 2003, so testing was limited in that winter. This year, four snowplows equipped with collision warning radar, and three others with passive-infrared night vision, completed more than 40,000 miles of highway operation in a variety of winter storm conditions. These tests, on seven highway segments in northern Arizona, established the advantages and limitations of the two low-cost commercial driver-warning systems. As a result, this project recommends wider use of collision warning radar for snowplows and other ADOT fleet units. However, the TAC recommends further winter storm evaluation of night vision, and has suggested further design refinements by the manufacturer.
486 Highway Facilities for an Aging Arizona Population: The immediate outcome of this research was Arizona’s successful competition for a federal grant to set up a demonstration project on US 60 near Sun City to study this issue in detail. The grant amount is $91,950 ($73,560 in Federal and $18,390 State funding). In the long run the improvements made to better accommodate older drivers are expected to reduce the frequency of crashes. This will save money and lives. Each future fatality avoided saves over a million dollars, each incapacitating injury crash avoided saves over $50,000, each non-incapacitating injury crash avoided saves over $17,000, each possible injury crash avoided saves nearly $10,000 and each property damage-only crash avoided saves over $6,000.
519 PM10 Research for Developing Educational Tools and Outreach Programs.
The Final Research Project Report was published October 2003. This project developed an educational outreach and certification program for the Maricopa County PM10 non-attainment area. It is intended for educational use statewide. The logo “Blue Skies Training Program” was adopted for this training.
On June 11th, 2004 the first training session was conducted and was very successful. It is managed by Beverly Chenausky, Air Quality Programs Supervisor, ADOT TPD. Another session will probably be scheduled in the fall. There are also plans to implement an online training package – presently in the early stages of development. Program information is available at this web location, http://tpd.az.gov/air/blueskies/main.htm
535(1) CVISN Safety Information Exchange, Nogales Port of Entry. A pilot test of hardware and software has been designed and will be implemented during the next fiscal year.
539 Third Party Transaction Cost-Benefit Analysis: The research showed that the cost per transaction for MVD Customer Service is $10.66 versus $9.54 for Third Party (a savings of over $2.1 million per year). In addition to the cost savings of the Third Party Program, the Program provides a number of significant intangible benefits, such as: reduced wait times in existing Customer Service offices, more convenient hours and days of service availability, reduced customer travel time and improved customer goodwill, reduced need for new buildings, MVD staff, and equipment, improved image of MVD responsiveness, process improvement, and demonstrated success of e-government and private-public partnerships.
543 Strategies to Integrate Environmental Stewardship into ADOT’s Business. Draft Report was submitted to the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) in May, 2004. TAC review completed and Final report submitted for Technical editing. Publication pending.
The project’s recommendation is to be presented to the ADOT Core Team at one of its regular meetings for consideration. At the same time a Stewardship Committee was constituted to look into ways that ADOT can implement needed efforts. This team is led by ADOT Health & Safety Administrator Sonya Herrera.
560 Improving Construction Communication. Eight actions are being taken to improve communications on the 59th/Grand Project. (1) A plans review has revealed project milestone dates and bulletins will be issued for each, at minimum. (2) Regional signing has been reviewed and may be supplemented. ADOT and Glendale are discussing additional “local” signing. (3) The existing design site, grandavenuecorridor.com is being transferred to construction for project specific use. (4) We have requested that Glendale hire a fulltime project liaison and this duty will pass to that position if it’s created. (5) Radio advertising will be purchased as part of the project “kick off” public information campaign. Additional use will be as necessary, only. (6) Television will probably be relegated from a construction standpoint to public relations activities, however, Glendale may use for local promotion during construction. (7) ADOT will work closely with local newspapers and the AZ Republic to publicize all elements of the project. No paid advertising is expected for construction, but may be purchase by Glendale. (8) Numerous briefings are planned prior to construction to keep facts straight.
566 Alternative Modes as an Air Quality Mitigation Strategy. Four actions are being taken. (1) Move AZ has incorporated alternate modes into its planning process. (2) ADOT will more actively participate on the CMAQ committees. (3) ADOT will request research through the Arizona Transportation Research Center on an “as needed” basis. (4) ADOT has implemented a statewide program. PTD is assisting ADOT trainers with the Telework program so telework can be an option statewide, not just in Pima and Maricopa County.

 

Environment

Project 495, FY 2000

A Field Study of Particulate Emissions from Major Roadways in the Phoenix Airshed.

Research Agency:

Arizona State University

Program Date: 07/01/99
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Jim Anderson

Contract Date: 11/17/99
Contract Amount:

$321,000        

Original Completion Date: 5/17/01
Program Budget:

$321,000        

Estimated Completion Date: 10/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$315,688        

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$5,312        

Advantage No.: R049512P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


85%      

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standard for particulate matter focuses on the size range of particles that are easily respired and retained within human lungs, 0.1 to 2.5 microns in diameter (PM2.5). Our current knowledge of particle emissions from transportation-related sources is based primarily on the existing PM10 standard, a measure of the mass of particles smaller than 10 microns. PM10 is dominated by the larger particles, so that current understanding of the contributions of transportation-related sources to PM10 is not applicable to PM2.5. Future transportation models that predict ambient particle concentrations will have to incorporate the PM2.5 standard. Because large variations in emission factors occur because of variables like climate, roadway type, and vehicle type and conditions, generic emission factors from other regions or laboratory studies will not suffice. Accurate modeling of the Phoenix urban area requires direct measurement of particulates, their compositions, size distributions, and concentrations and accompanying meteorological conditions in three dimensions along and away from the linear sources that major roadways represent. Measurements of particulates must be accompanied by accurate counts of vehicle numbers, types, and their speeds.

A significant challenge in a field study of roadway emissions is separation of the urban regional plume from the freeway emissions. A second challenge in an area of complex terrain like Phoenix and Tucson is that the concentration of particles in the urban plume and the dispersion of roadway pollutants are both dependent upon position within topographically controlled wind fields. The experimental design must address these problems.

There is a serious disparity between receptor-model and emission-inventory estimates of the contribution that combustion sources make to fine particulates. For the Phoenix area, receptor models estimate that 70% of primary fine particulates come from combustion. In contrast, emission inventories estimate that 18% come from combustion. Part of the disparity is due to an underestimation of PM2.5 from vehicular exhaust coupled with possible overestimates of re-entrained dust. More of the disparity may stem from a lack of knowledge of the composition of re-entrained dust, which may consist of aggregates of soil particles with carbonaceous material rather than just soil particles alone. A field study combined with numerical modeling is the best way to answer this question. The accurate evaluation of any fine particulate control strategies cannot proceed without our knowledge of the different contributing particle fractions.

ANTICIPATED BENEFITS

The proposed study will provide data about transportation-related particulates that are essential for future transportation modeling due to (1) the serious non-attainment status of the Phoenix airshed, (2) the continuing growth in traffic caused by growing population, and (3) the eventual enforcement of the PM2.5 standard. The work on emission factors for re-entrained mineral dust will be the first such study to use quantitative single-particle analysis methods. The aircraft study will provide data about the 3-dimension variation in aerosols and associated meteorological conditions, essential for accurate fine-scale modeling of linear roadway sources. It will provide optical data that are linked to data about the aerosol’s chemical and physical properties, essential for modeling of visibility impairment. The combination of rapid population growth in Maricopa County, current and planned future freeway construction, and the non-attainment status of the area with regard to federal standards make it imperative that we gain a better understanding of transportation-related particulates and of their dispersion and transport in our desert, complex terrain region. Delay in examining these issues will only make it more difficult to address these issues.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

      To determine the contribution of vehicle-related emissions on major roadways to PM2.5 and PM10 in the Phoenix airshed;

· For vehicle-related emissions to determine the relationships between particle properties such as individual-particle and bulk composition, size, and optical properties;
· To determine emissions factors for re-entrainment of mineral dust particles from major roadways, arterials and freeways including data by vehicle type and speed;
· To determine whether re-entrained mineral dust is aggregated with significant amounts of carbonaceous material;
· To improve numerical modeling of fine particulate dispersion modeling
· To make progress on the resolution of the disparity between receptor models and emissions inventories of fine particulates for the Phoenix airshed.
· Evaluate existing literature and estimate particulate deposition rates

At a minimum, the following tasks will be accomplished:

1. Sample and analyze particulates using ground-based individual-particle and standard PM2.5 and PM10 mass samplers on freeway medians and arterials at either existing Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) traffic-counting locations or co-located with special counters. Quantitative single-particle analysis of inorganic particles by automated scanning electron microscope should cover the size range of 0.1 to 10 microns, from which the equivalent of both PM2.5 and PM10 can be extracted.
2.  Measure the temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed (down to 0.5 m/s) at the freeway median sites for use in modeling. Measure the average fine particle concentrations.
3. Make measurements both upwind and downwind of such segments in order to separate the contribution of background emissions from roadway emissions. Both single-particle and mass aerosol samplers should be used. The aerosol optical properties and meteorological conditions should be measured.
4. Numerically model the deposition of vehicle-related fine particulates.
5. Determine the mass emission rates and relative contributions of combustion particles, other vehicle-related particles such as from tires, and re-entrained mineral dust to primary fine particulates emitted from major roadways in the airshed.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The proposed research will be of direct relevance to the Environmental Planning Section of ADOT and falls within the areas of responsibility of Air Quality personnel. The work will also be coordinated with the Air Quality Division of the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is completed except for final report revision - which is currently ongoing. All field experimentation and analysis is finished. The final report draft review is completed. Principal investigator has promised completed final report revisions September 2004.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Fred Garcia Environmental Planning, ADOT
Beverly Chenausky Transportation Planning, ADOT
Ruey-in Chiou Maricopa Association of Governments
Peter Hyde ADEQ, Air Quality Assessment.
Gaye Knight City of Phoenix, Office of Environmental Programs
Jo Crumbaker Maricopa County, Environmental Services
Ed Stillings Federal Highway Administration
Tom Kombe ADOT Research Project Manager, ATRC

 


Project 496, FY 2000

Identification of Sources and Development of Effective Control Measures at High Particulate Emission Areas.

Research Agency:

Arizona Department of Environmental Quality

Program Date: 07/01/99
Principal Investigator(s):

Mr. Raymond Redman
with Mr. Peter Hyde

Contract Date: 3/14/00
Contract Amount:

$92,050         

Original Completion Date: 3/31/01
Program Budget:

$100,000         

Estimated Completion Date: 12/3104
Expenditures to date:

$38,663         

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$61,337        

Advantage No.: R049612P
Percent complete
through 6/30/2004


65%        

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Certain areas in the Maricopa County PM10 non-attainment area consistently exceed the PM10 National Ambient Air Quality Standards (both the 24-hour and annual standards). These high particulate pollution areas should be addressed by planning and developing an effective program to reduce particulate emissions and urban haze and should be based on tangible data addressing the efficacy of proposed abatement methods. One difficulty in constructing such a program is the scarcity of information for Maricopa County linking the sources of PM10 to high concentrations and specific costs and benefits for particulate control methods.

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), along with other agencies and industrial and area sources, are consistently asked to commit to air quality control measures without any background data to assess emission reduction levels or control measure costs or benefits. Many of the measures that are being committed to by the agencies and other sources are not having the needed impact to address the PM10 pollution problem, not only on a regional basis, but at locations experiencing high particulate concentrations. This results in the continuing threat of federal sanctions on highway construction funds.

A Brown Cloud Study was done in 1990 in Phoenix, but has not been updated. The study did identify transportation related PM10 sources as the major contributor to the problem

In its 1998 recommendations, the Governor’s Air Quality Strategies Task Force suggested that the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and ADOT participate in research to identify the larger emission sources and evaluate potential control measures for areas with high particulate emission concentrations. As a result, Senate Bill 1427 (1998) provided for a $50,000 appropriation from the state general fund in Fiscal Year 1998-1999 as a state match to ADEQ to monitor specific high PM10 pollution sites as the first step to reduce emissions in those areas. ADEQ is currently seeking the necessary matching funds for the $50,000 appropriation. This proposed project, along with the ADEQ project, is beneficial to ADOT as the projects will help both agencies meet the air quality commitments of the Governor’s Task Force. ADOT would be represented on the ADEQ project team as both a partner and a stakeholder, coordinating tasks through this proposed project. Because any potential sanctions for missing an air quality deadline will heavily impact ADOT, we are proposing that ADOT match the ADEQ project with this proposed project.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

·      Identification of sources of PM10 and their contributions.
·        Development of recommendations regarding effective and efficient measures which would address the cause and effect of high particulate levels in specific areas.

At a minimum the following tasks will be accomplished:

1. Physical samples at Greenwood location. Differentiate PM2.5 and PM10
2. Chemical analysis, separating geological and combustion contributions.
3. Use video cameras in strategic locations for supplemental source apportionment.
4. Numerical Modeling
5. Traffic surveys for vehicle counts and classifications for fleet mix in area of study.
6. Build micro inventory around monitor, using in part the available with the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) and their contractors
7. Dispersion Model: Determine I-10 impact with respect to re-entrained vs. combustion contributions, including 27th Avenue and the freeway ramp.

  EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

While transportation construction projects would probably be impacted the hardest, most of ADOT would be affected in terms of the way highway projects are planned, programmed, designed, contracted out, and ultimately completed. As ADOT is an affected party in this effort, it is recommended that ADOT have at least two representatives on the ADEQ project committee. At the same time, two ADEQ representatives will be on the Technical Advisory Committee for this project, as suggested below.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Draft Final report submitted July 2004. TAC review in progress.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Beverly Chenausky Transportation Planning, ADOT
Ruey-in Chiou Maricopa Association of Governments
Peter Hyde Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
Gaye Knight City of Phoenix
Jo Crumbaker Maricopa County Environmental Services
Ed Stillings Federal Highway Administration
Tom Kombe ADOT Research Project Manager, ATRC

 

 

Project 540, FY 2002 / FY2004

Evaluation of Measures to Minimize Wildlife Vehicle Collisions and Maintain Wildlife Permeability across Highways (Phase1 and Phase II)

Research Agency:

Arizona Game & Fish Dept.

Program Date: 10/01/2001 &
10/1/2003
Principal Investigator(s):

Mr. Norris Dodd

Contract Date: 01-29-2002 &
12/16/2003
Phase 1 /Phase 2
Contract Amount: $217,000/ $344,000 Original Completion Date: 12/04 & 06/06
Program Budget: $217,000/ $344,000 Estimated Completion Date: 12/04 & 06/06
Expenditures to date: $217,000/ $52,000 Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount: $0 / $292,000 Advantage No.: R054014P, others
Percent complete
through 6/30/04
90% / 10% Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Animal/vehicle collisions result in human fatalities, injuries, and extensive property losses every year in Arizona. As the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) upgrades existing rural highways the problem intensifies. Collisions increase with speed and traffic volume. The issue of vehicle/wildlife collisions is becoming more of a concern to citizens and resource managers. These collisions cause millions of dollars of property damage and litigation associated with such collisions is increasing. These concerns are impacting highway construction costs and project schedules as highway designers and scientists look for solutions to the problem. A lack of scientifically collected data on the effectiveness of various mitigation measures compounds the problem especially here in Arizona where no valid studies have been conducted.

ADOT will be implementing a comprehensive package of measures to address wildlife concerns as part of the upgrade of SR260 from Payson to Show Low. These measures will conservatively cost more than 3.5 million dollars. None of these measures have been implemented in Arizona before nor has their effectiveness been evaluated. Since animal/vehicle collision mitigation methods will be used in the future on other highways in Arizona, it is imperative that these methods are evaluated to determine their effectiveness at increasing highway safety and maintaining wildlife permeability.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this proposed research is to measure the effectiveness of the various highway design features to reduce wildlife/vehicle collisions and maintain habitat connectivity on the state highway 260 corridor.

ACTION PLAN - TASKS

At a minimum, the following tasks will be accomplished by the researcher:

1. Meet with the Technical Advisory Committee to discuss the scope of work and action plan.
2. Document and report the incidence of wildlife/vehicle collisions along the entire length of the study area. Analyze and compare the wildlife/vehicle collisions along the test area with the data in the same areas collected since 1987.
3. Monitor the movement of adult elk in three time periods; pre-construction, during construction, and post construction. Analyze the data to determine the degree to which wildlife permeability across the highway is maintained.
4. Monitor the wildlife-proof fencing to determine its effectiveness at limiting wildlife access to the fenced highway.
5. Document the research effort and findings in a final report.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This research will provide the required data for the need, design, location, and frequency of underpasses for the conveyance of wildlife under a highway. It will evaluate the effectiveness of various wildlife-proof fence configurations in containing and directing large game animals. The research will evaluate the effectiveness of one-way gates and escape ramps in allowing large game animals to return to the off-highway side should a breach in the fence occur. This research will establish a database that will provide more complete information on the frequency, location, species, and damage related to wildlife/vehicle collisions

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Phase I of the project is nearly completed with work in progress on an interim phase I report. Phase II of the project is currently on-going with good progress.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Bruce Eilerts Natural Resources, ADOT
Dee Bowling ADOT Environmental & Enhancement Group
Mike Ross Tonto National Forest
Earl (Duke) Klein Tonto National Forest
Doug Brown AZ Dept. of Administration
Norris Dodd   AZ Game & Fish Dept., Research Leader
Ray Schweinsburg AZ Game & Fish Dept.
Steve Thomas Federal Highway Administration
Terry Brennan Tonto National Forest
Melissa Maiefski ADOT Environmental & Enhancement Group
Tom Kombe ADOT Research Project Manager, ATRC

 

Project 543, FY 2002

Develop Strategies that Best Integrate Environmental Stewardship into ADOT’s Business.

Research Agency:

AASHTO Center for Environmental Excellence

Program Date: 10/01/2001
Principal Investigator(s):

Mr. Wayne Kober

Contract Date: 06/25/03
Contract Amount:

$99,380    

Original Completion Date: 09/30/04
Program Budget:

$100,000    

Estimated Completion Date: 09/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$55,0000    

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$45,000    

Advantage No.: R054314P
Percent complete
through 6/30/2004


95%    

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) recognizes that it has an important role in environmental protection. It is in this light that the ADOT Core Team has identified environmental stewardship as one of three priority focus areas from a broader list of strategic planning challenges. It is ADOT’s desire to strongly and proactively pursue a strategy or set of strategies that fulfill this role as an integral part of its business. Such a strategy (mix) should address matters over which the Department has formal control as well as those areas that it can influence.

The Department’s role in environmental stewardship goes hand in hand with its other role to the taxpayers to deliver a transportation program on time and on budget. These are not mutually exclusive goals, nor should excelling at one mean doing so at the expense of the other. With the right mix of strategies, one can set out and succeed in excelling at both.

To develop an effective strategy (mix), focus must be placed on drawing upon effective processes from within the department as well as from outside the department. The Environmental Planning Group within the Intermodal Transportation Division and the Air Quality Programs section within the Transportation Planning Division (TPD), are currently involved in a number of leading efforts in environmental process streamlining, educational programs, performance audits, and outreach programs – among others. These programs, with critical evaluation, can form a strong basis for future strategy. Some of these efforts also include on-going research projects through the Research Center. Outside the Department, other states may have identifiable programs that are already successful or that show strong potential to deliver effective solutions. Strategy elements that show promise, regardless of source, can be a part of the discussion, evaluation, and strategy development process.

Strategies in environmental stewardship ought to recognize the contributions from the many diverse role players. The most benefits will be achieved if the most players are involved and convinced to make their contribution. Those to be targeted for involvement will include:

·        Local, state, and federal agencies

·        Contractors in the construction and related industries

·        The driving public

·        The general public (as taxpayers and environmental stakeholders)

·        Department employees and other state employees

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.  To identify and evaluate effective environmental programs and isolate the key elements in those programs.

2.   To recommend an environmental strategy or mix of strategies for ADOT as part of its strategic plan.

At a minimum, the following tasks will be accomplished by the researcher:

1. Hold an initial project meeting with the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) to present their work plan and to solicit comments and input.
2. Review available materials on the subject to establish the state of the practice in environmental stewardship for transportation agencies and to identify those approaches showing the best results.
3. Hold meetings with key individuals and groups to solicit ideas on what has worked, what will work, and how these individuals and groups could make their most contribution.
4. Identify and evaluate approaches in environmental stewardship within ADOT and elsewhere around the country that have proven effective or shown most potential.
5. Select elements of these approaches that together would make the most significant environmental contribution.
6. Determine how these elements could most effectively be integrated into ADOT’s business. Focus should be placed on a continuous involvement of all players/customers in a manner that optimizes environmental benefits.
7. Present the findings to key individuals and groups for discussion, with a view to make necessary refinements.
8. Based on the above tasks, present a (futuristic) recommendation on the environmental stewardship strategy (mix) for ADOT.
9. Develop an implementation plan to include marketing, financial, and implementation schedule components.
10. Make a presentation to the Core Team / Research Council.
11. Write a final report, fully documenting gathered materials and decision processes.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

An Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) project manager, working with the Environmental Planning Group (Champion) and the TPD Air Quality Team will put together a TAC and work with this committee to select and contract with a consultant to conduct the research. The Technical Advisory Committee will define the scope of work and monitor project execution by the contractor. The final recommendation and implementation plan will be presented to the Research Council and ADOT management (Core Team) for their consideration and implementation decision.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Final Report submitted July 2004 after completion of TAC review of the draft final report. Technical editing of the final report in progress.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Tammy Flaitz ADOT Environmental & Enhancement Group
Beverly Chenausky ADOT Transportation Planning Division
Terry Trost ADOT Strategic Planning & Budget
John Nichols ADOT General Operations
Bruce Eilerts ADOT Statewide Natural Resources
Ken Davis Federal Highway Administration
Debra Brisk ADOT Director’s Office
Ray Boucher ADOT Aeronautics
Sonya Herrera ADOT Health and Safety
Larry Parkes Motor Vehicle Division
Tom Kombe ADOT Research Project Manager, ATRC

 

 

Project 555 FY 2003

Determination of Atmospheric Effects on Highway Noise Propagation

Research Agency:

ATS Consulting, LLC

Program Date: 10/01/2002
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Hugh Saurenman

Contract Date: 07/01/2003
Contract Amount:

$170,000

Original Completion Date: 06/30/2005
Program Budget:

$170,000

Estimated Completion Date: 06/30/2005
Expenditures to date:

$67,000

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$103,000

Advantage No.: R055515P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


60%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Long-term exposure to noise is a function of atmospheric conditions that current highway prediction methods ignore by assuming a neutral, homogeneous atmosphere. Prevailing atmospheric conditions can cause receivers beyond those adjacent to a highway to be exposed to highway noise otherwise considered inaudible using standard prediction methods. This effect may not only increase audibility of highway noise but can produce noise levels that exceed the applicable noise impact criteria.

Noise emanates directly from primary noise sources such as exhausts and encased engines and from tires where the noise emissions depend upon the pavement type. Secondary noise sources arise due to reflections from pavement and vertical surfaces such as highway noise barriers. Noise barriers reflect sound energy from an elevated location and spread the highway noise over a wider area. Absorptive sound barriers offset this effect.

Negative public attitudes towards noise barriers can result from this increased noise. As an example, Ohio DOT temporarily suspended its Type II program five years ago in response to strong public criticism that arose from people whose properties were not adjacent to the highway but reported being able to hear it more clearly after walls were installed. People next to the highway still benefited from reduced noise, but more distant locations were exposed to greater highway noise.

Refraction is the underlying phenomenon that correlates with these observed (i.e. perceptible and measurable) increases or decreases of noise exposure. The refraction causes sound to follow a curved trajectory as it propagates away from the highway. As such, the effects are more noticeable at greater distances from the sound source.

The refracted sound path is fundamentally influenced by the effective sound speed as a function of height above the ground surface since sound refracts towards areas with lesser effective sound speeds. When the effective sound speed increases as a function of height, as is the case for downwind and temperature inversion conditions, sound will refract downwards. When the effective sound speed decreases as a function of height, as is the case for upwind and temperature lapse conditions, sound will refract upwards.

Over flat, grassy ground the effects of downward refraction can increase noise levels by about 0.5 dB(A) (over asphalt by about 2 dB(A)). However, when sound propagating near ground level is blocked by intervening obstacles, the introduction of refracted sound can increase noise levels by 30 dB(A). Since a 10 dB(A) change in sound levels is typically assumed to be a factor of two in changed perceived loudness, a 30 dB(A) change can be extrapolated to represent an eight-fold increase in perceived noise levels. This can negate the benefit provided to many receivers otherwise shielded from the highway.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of the proposed research project is to quantify the typical non-neutral effect of refraction on highway noise, and the range of this effect, and investigate a method to screen for noise impacts.

At a minimum the following tasks will be accomplished:

1. Review of literature and available data
2. Study differences between actual and neutral-atmospheric conditions
3. Assess the necessity for project specific monitoring and the utility of pre-existing regional data, such as wind roses
4. Implement prediction algorithm
5. Evaluate expected seasonal and diurnal patterns
6. Conduct two-week field measurement program during critical time periods
7. Correlate noise level variability with atmospheric parameters that control the effective sound speed profile
8. Investigate utility of a screening level design tool to identify potential noise impacts due to prevailing non-neutral atmospheric conditions
9. Document all project activity and recommendations in a Final Report.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The Transportation Research Board (TRB) — Section A1F04 on Noise has suggested that atmospheric effects remain the largest source of prediction error when the new Traffic Noise Model (TNM) predictions are compared to field measurements. R&D are required to estimate the effect of refraction on noise propagation for more typical, non-neutral atmospheric conditions. This R&D will assist ADOT in anticipating and addressing citizen concerns and allow for a better understanding of when and where increased audibility and noise impacts are, or are not, to be expected.

The preliminary screening for noise impacts due to atmospheric effects beyond first row residences will allow for greater opportunity to address citizen concerns in advance and consider the merits of additional noise mitigation, such as low-noise pavements and absorptive noise barriers. This will help increase public acceptance of highway projects.

Additional benefits to ADOT include more accurate prediction of the extent of potential noise impacts of new facilities on distant receivers, ability to study the spreading of sound by vertical surfaces such as noise barriers, and the prediction of the degradation of noise barrier performance by refracted noise.

STATUS OF RESEARCH

Project is on-going with good progress made. A number of technical memoranda have been submitted to the technical advisory committee (TAC) for review. First phase of data collection was done April 2004, with second set scheduled for October 2004.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Fred Garcia Environmental & Enhancement Group
Steve Thomas Federal Highway Administration
Kelly McMullen Maricopa County Department of Transportation
Robert Pikora City of Phoenix
Jerri Horst S. R. Beard & Associates
Tom Kombe ADOT Research Project Manager, ATRC

 

 

Project 572 FY 2004

Identification and Evaluation of Innovative Noise Barrier Designs

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/2003
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$50,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$50,000

Advantage No.: R057216P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The typical strategy to reduce traffic noise near highways is the construction of concrete walls, masonry block walls, or earthen berms. These mitigation strategies are very effective for noise reduction, but sometimes result in undesired impacts, such as blocked views and large shadows across residents’ yards. Also, when there is a need to increase the noise reduction of existing noise walls, the standard approach is to add height to the existing wall or, many times, replace the entire wall with a new higher wall. These retrofitting approaches can be very costly.

Innovative noise barrier designs and treatments have been successfully utilized in other states and throughout Europe for a number of years that allow the initial construction of a noise wall to be lower in height than a traditional wall. Also, retrofitting an existing wall with an innovative top treatment will reduce noise levels and eliminate the need for costly wall height increases or wall replacement. Such top treatments include angled tops, irregular top edge, T-top treatments, and other applications.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of the research is the determination of whether innovative noise barrier designs could be effectively utilized: (1) to reduce overall wall height and cost during initial construction, and (2) to substitute for costly retrofit wall height increases or wall replacement.

The research effort will begin with an exhaustive literature search of the various innovative noise barrier designs and treatments that have been used in other states and in other countries. The search will focus on designs for both initial construction and retrofit construction. The project will evaluate the economic, acoustical, and aesthetic feasibility of the innovative noise barrier designs for possible application in Arizona. An evaluation matrix will be developed to assist in this analysis.

It is anticipated that several strategies will be identified that could be effectively used in the ADOT noise abatement program. These innovative strategies will provide a cost-effective noise reduction, while reducing the aesthetic, visual, shadows, and other impacts typically associated with higher noise walls. Substantial cost savings are likely with the identification of innovative applications and top treatments that could reduce noise levels without costly retrofit wall height increases or complete wall replacement. A quantification of these costs will be part of the evaluation effort

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This research effort will identify feasible innovative applications and top treatments for noise barriers that could cost-effectively reduce noise levels without undesired impacts. The ultimate implementation would be the use of these techniques where appropriate and beneficial.

STATUS OF RESEARCH

Work on an RFP document in progress.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

David Pekara - VSI
Mike Dennis ADOT Environmental & Enhancement Group
Fred Garcia ADOT Environmental & Enhancement Group
Laura Tsosie ADOT Environmental & Enhancement Group
Steve Thomas Federal Highway Administration
Angela Rebecca Newton (Angie) – Noise & Air Solutions
Tom Kombe ADOT Research Project Manager, ATRC

 

 

Project 576, FY 2004

US-93 Big Horn Sheep Study.

Research Agency:

Arizona Game & Fish Department

Program Date: 10/01/2003
Principal Investigator(s):

Jim DeVos & Ted McKinney

Contract Date: 02/26/2004
Contract Amount:

$185,000

Original Completion Date: 08/31/2006
Program Budget:

$185,000

Estimated Completion Date: 08/31/2006
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$185,000

TRACS No.: R057615P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


15%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Big horn sheep occur in the area of the proposed Highway 93 upgrade and the potential exists that this population will be adversely impacted by highway upgrades. Previous studies by researchers have documented the movement of bighorn sheep across the existing Highway 93 alignment; these investigations have noted the occurrence of multiple collisions between sheep and automobiles during the years of the studies. As traffic volumes increase and the actual roadway increases in size from 2 lanes to 4 lanes, there is increased likelihood that highways may isolate resident populations of Ovis canadensis into small, disjointed herd units.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.      Identify the patterns of movement of Big Horn Sheep along this corridor.

2.      Recommend measures to minimize adverse impacts during the US-93 project’s construction phase.

This is the initial phase of a potentially multi-phase project to monitor big horn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) within the US-93 project area. The first phase of the proposed project will allow for the monitoring of big horn sheep with GPS equipped telemetry collars to identify the patterns of movement of the sheep. The monitoring will provide transportation officials and resource managers with a better understanding of where in the project area the natural corridors of the big horn sheep are located. This will constitute the basis for enhanced decisions on the incorporation of design features better suited to reducing or preventing collisions between vehicles and wildlife along areas of proposed improvements to Highway 93. The research will also enable resource managers to identify key habitat features that are used disproportionate to their availability and minimize adverse impacts during the US-93 project’s construction phase.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The proposed research will be of direct relevance to the Environmental Planning and the Natural Resources Groups of ADOT. The work will also be coordinated with the Federal Highway Administration and other Federal, State, and local agencies – including the Forest Service, the Arizona Game and Fish Department, and the Bureau of Land Management.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

On-going.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

John Reid, Bureau of Land Management
Rebecca Peck Bureau of Land Management
Terry Brennan US Forest Service
Jim Holland US National Park Service
Justin White ADOT Environmental & Enhancement Group
Melissa Maiefski ADOT Environmental & Enhancement Group
Sam Elters ADOT, Kingman District
Kara Hinker-Brambach ADOT, Kingman District
Steve Thomas Federal Highway Administration
Ron Kearns Fish and Wildlife Service
Jim DeVos AZ Game & Fish Department
Kevin Morgan AZ Game & Fish Department

 

 

Project 581, FY 2005

Air Quality Effects of High Sound Wall in Urban Areas

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/2004
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

15,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

15,000

TRACS No.: R058117P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The use of high walls for noise abatement has become a common feature of construction in urban areas. Little is known about their air quality consequences with regard to concentrations of particulates, both from vehicle exhaust and from re-entrainment of road-surface dust. Recent work on Phoenix-area freeways has shown that coarse particulate (PM10) concentrations can be very high even on segments without sound walls during periods of low wind speed. The obstruction of winds by that would disperse particulates from freeway corridors may make this make the effect even more severe. If PM10 concentrations are found to be enhanced by the presence of high walls, then fine particulates (PM2.5) and primary emission gases such as carbon monoxide may also be enhanced and further study would be indicated.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Conduct a pilot study of the effects of high noise abatement walls regard to PM10.
  2. Measure the concentrations of PM10 within freeway corridors surrounded by high walls.
  3. Determine conditions for high wall construction that create any adverse effects.
  4. Coordinate study approach and findings with DEQ.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

When this research is completed, it could show that the practice of high noise walls may adversely affect air quality by concentrating vehicle-related particulates, both exhaust particles and re-entrained road dust. It could, on the other hand, prove that no significant effect is created by the high noise wall construction practices. Either result could support and guide future ADOT determinations regarding high noise wall installations.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Pending

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Pending

 

 

Project 584, FY 2005

Survey of Traffic Noise Reduction Products, Materials, and Technologies

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/2005
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

10,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

10,000

TRACS No.: R058417P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

One of the most effective methods of controlling traffic noise is to reduce the noise generated at the source. One means to accomplish this is to absorb the sound on or near the roadway. Alternative noise barrier designs and treatments have been successfully utilized in other states and throughout Europe for a number of years to address different performance needs. In some situations these designs allow for the initial construction of a noise wall to be lower in height than a traditional wall. Also, retrofitting an existing wall with an innovative top section can reduce noise levels and eliminate the need for costly wall height increases or wall replacements. However, there is no comprehensive compilation of information on such traffic noise reduction products, materials, and designs.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1. Determine what noise reduction products, materials, and technologies are currently available that have potential as noise mitigation alternatives.
2. Compile available performance information and discuss whether a full-scale testing program by the department is recommended.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

Based on the results of the tasks in this project, an assessment of the expected growth in the acceptability and use of the alternative noise mitigation approaches will be completed. The nature of, and amount of available quality performance information will also be determined. Recommendations will be developed on how ADOT can best proceed on this and whether a full-scale testing program is needed. Should such a testing program be recommended, ADOT will evaluate and decide accordingly.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Pending

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Pending


 

Project 587, FY 2005

Evaluation of Salvage and Replanted Native Plants on ADOT Projects

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/2005
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$75,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$75,000

TRACS No.: R058717P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

ADOT in the construction of highway projects over the last 10 years has transplanted substantial quantities of plant species that provide a major contribution to the area ecosystem and visual quality of highway projects. The cost of this planting on many projects can run $200,000 to $300,000 per mile. On SR 87 and US 93 heavy emphasis was placed on salvaging and transplanting of Saguaros, Ocotillo, Barrel and Yucca and some native trees. The plants salvaged and replanted on projects are watered one or two years after replanting as plant establishment. Because of the nature of the plants they may not show survival or mortality until they have been in the ground for 3 to 8 years. Since a number of plantings have been in the ground 5 to 10 years an inventory based on the projects’ plantings with an evaluation of survival and mortality would benefit the planning, design and construction of projects.

The salvage and replanting of plant materials can have a major visual and ecosystem effect on projects. At the present time no evaluations have been made that can contribute to our knowledge basis and towards improvement of project design. The Department annually spends several hundred thousand dollars per mile on salvaging and replanting on projects throughout the state. This would be a valuable expenditure when considering the cost for success and failure related to planting and re-establishment of these unique plants on highway projects

The resulting benefits would include the following:

  •  
Since many of the species planted are in a time period when their survival or mortality can be determined, assessing the survival and mortality rate would provide information on species that salvage well and have a high level of survival.
  •  
Research the contributing factors for survival and mortality.
  •  
Develop additional criteria selection for salvage for replanting.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.    Quantify the effectiveness and survivability of the transplanting if native plants on highway projects.
2.    Determine the level of survival and death of transplanted plants.
3.    Assess factors that contribute to survival and mortality of transplanted plants.
4.    Review information for improvement of projects requirements

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

ADOT has a number of projects now reaching an age where salvage and replanting materials could be evaluated to provide effective determinations. An evaluation of salvage techniques and establishment techniques would enable the Department monies to be spent more effectively.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Pending

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)


(Tentative – may change, others may be added)

LeRoy Brady, Manager Roadside Development, ADOT (Champion);
Representative - Tonto National Forest;
Representatives - Various District Construction ORGS;
Representative - Natural Resource Section, ADOT;
Representative - Environmental and Enhancement Group, ADOT.

     

 

Project 588, FY 2005

A Study of the Effectiveness of Big Horn Underpasses on State Route 68

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/2005
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$175,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$175,000

TRACS No.: R058817P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Habitat fragmentation by highways generally creates species declines. For bighorn sheep, size of contiguous habitat is a critical factor determining population persistence. Arizona consists of 32 isolated bighorn sheep ranges of varying sizes, the Black Mountains in northwestern Arizona being the largest (>500,000 acres). The range contains the largest desert sheep herd in the U.S., and represents 31% of Arizona’s sheep population. The Black Mountain herd also provides an important source population for transplants. Upgrades to SR 68 and U.S. 93 could create three smaller isolated patches of bighorn sheep habitat in the Black Mountains

Highway underpasses are used nationally to mitigate the effects of habitat fragmentation, yet few performance evaluations have been conducted (Foreman et al. 2003). Two underpasses were installed in the Black Mountains along SR 68 for wildlife crossing; however, their effectiveness remains largely unknown. Little is known about bighorn sheep use of underpasses elsewhere, or the factors that influence sheep use of crossing structures. Information is needed to ensure proper placement and design of passages on this and future highway projects planned in the Black Mountains.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1. Quantify the effectiveness of SR 68 highway underpasses in facilitating bighorn sheep habitat connectivity in the Black Mountains.
2. Determine physical and biological factors that influence bighorn sheep use of these underpasses.
3. Recommend modification to wildlife crossing structures if necessary

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

With the results of this evaluation ADOT will be able to make informed decisions when opportunities arise during maintenance and new roadway constructions, for the upgrade to and installation of wildlife crossing structures of proven effectiveness.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH Pending

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Pending


 

Project 589, FY 2005

Determination of 404 Permit and Habitat Restoration Requirements

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/2005
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$125,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$125,000

TRACS No.: R058917P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Tom Kombe

PROBLEM STATEMENT

ADOT recognizes that with the construction of highway projects and to waters of the U.S. and important habitat areas that there is an opportunity to re-establish and enhance quality wildlife habitat areas. The present Permits frequently require planting on a replacement of 3 to 1 with up to 80% survival in the fifth year of the permit. Based on review of these permit areas it is becoming apparent that these requirements are beyond a naturally sustainable level with a number of projects falling short of these requirements. Since habitat and native planting has not been studied these criteria are based on assumptions beyond what the various ecological systems appear to be able to support especially in a drought.

The present 7 year drought that we are experiencing has a very direct effect on the survivability of the plantings. At the present time no one area can provide information from which to make evaluations and determinations which would provide a basis for new project plantings and specifications. Values that are appearing with projects require additional time and effort of the various staff resources in setting up new projects and addressing value issues.

The resulting benefits would include the following:

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Determine the 404 Permit and habitat restoration permits that are under construction and within the reporting period for completion (3 to 5 years)
  2. Assess the conditions of the plantings towards meeting the requirements for completing the 404 Permit or habitat restoration mitigations.
  3. Based on the assessments of developed criteria and guidelines for the 404 Permits and habitat replacements

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

At the present time we estimate ADOT spends over several thousand dollars a year for plantings on various projects throughout the state. Evaluations 3 or 4 years after these plantings are being made are beginning to indicate that many of these plantings are being made beyond the naturally sustainable level. The research would provide additional direction to the Department on realistic expectations and commitments.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Pending

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

(Tentative List. May change/others may be added)

LeRoy Brady, Manager Roadside Development, ADOT (Champion);
Tammy Flaitz, Asst. Environmental Program Manager, ADOT;
Thor Anderson, Environmental Planning, ADOT;
Bruce Eilerts, Natural Resources Manager, ADOT

 

 

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)

Project 473, FY 1998

Arizona Intelligent Vehicle Research

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation Research Center

Program Date: 10/09/97
Principal Investigator(s):

ATRC Staff (Owen)

Contract Date: None
Contract Amount:

None (in-house)

Original Completion Date: 06/30/98
Program Budget:

$70,000

Estimated Completion Date: 06/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$55,174

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount: $14,826 Advantage No.: R0473 14P
Percent complete
through 6/30/2004:


98%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Steve Owen

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This Intelligent Vehicles (IV) project was the result of ADOT visits to the National Automated Highway Systems (AHS) Demonstration in San Diego, California in 1997. The project concept is to evaluate ITS driver assistance and guidance technology for maintenance vehicles in severe winter storm conditions.

The Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) is conducting this project in-house. Six winters of testing and evaluation have now been completed. Phased project reports were published by ATRC in February 01, May 02, September 03 and January 04. The ATRC will continue to monitor implementation and field evaluation of IV snowplow systems.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The key objective of this ongoing project is to continue, and to implement, advanced snowplow research. A second objective is to pursue further research into intelligent vehicle systems, as it may eventually lead to deployment of advanced vehicles and dedicated lanes in Arizona.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This ongoing project will identify promising areas for deployment of ITS-IV systems in Arizona. It will support further research, tests and demonstrations as warranted in the areas of dedicated lanes, vehicle guidance and related technology. The current focus is on validation of new technologies to improve safety and efficiency of winter maintenance in Arizona conditions, and to promote implementation and further local evaluation of these systems.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Initial project efforts evaluated Intelligent Vehicle technology for congestion relief. A concept study was done on dedicated AHS lanes on I-10 from Phoenix to Tucson. A demonstration of magnet-guided, fully automated cars was conducted in late 1997 on a closed course in Tempe. Another on-highway demonstration in early 1998 employed cars with machine-vision guidance.

ADOT’s Intelligent Vehicle research goal is to enhance travel safety and operational efficiency, and the current focus is winter maintenance. In 1998, ADOT joined the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to evaluate a prototype Advanced Snowplow (ASP), the Caltrans RoadView system. ADOT began tests of the Caltrans magnets in early 1998, and a six lane-mile test site was constructed on US 180 near Flagstaff in 1998 and 1999. The Caltrans ASP vehicle was shipped to Arizona for one month of training and testing each winter, for four years.

In early 2000, after two years with Caltrans, the research TAC directed that driver-assistance systems be installed on an ADOT snowplow. As a result, the 3M Company equipped a truck and installed five miles of magnetic tape on US 89 near Sunset Crater. Winter testing of this 3M Lane Awareness System in 2000-01 and 2001-02 was a success.

After four years of extensive training and evaluations of the Caltrans and 3M guidance systems, the TAC shifted the research to less complex commercial on-board warning systems for low visibility conditions. It was clear that the roadway-infrastructure systems were too costly for ADOT, and the TAC concluded in early 2002 that true whiteout storm conditions were not frequent enough in Arizona to justify the advanced, semi-automated systems.

The TAC requested that the project study two commercial on-board warning systems for low-visibility conditions – Eaton VORAD Collision Warning Radar and Bendix XVision infrared night vision. ATRC acquired four radar and three night vision systems. Seven maintenance camps in three districts were each provided with a test system for one of their snowplows, and all were installed by January 2003. The 2002-03 winter was quite mild and dry, with only limited snowplowing results for the winter. This was considered the last winter of research, as it resulted in a regional deployment. A final project report 473(4) was published in January 2004 on the concepts and issues encountered with the 02-03 deployment of on-board warning systems.

This research program continued for another winter in an implementation evaluation mode. ATRC was able to complete a full winter of testing and evaluation in 2003-04, although it was yet another dry season for northern Arizona. Results of this just-completed second winter will be summarized for the TAC in a brief technical memorandum.

While the research activity is complete, the project will remain fiscally active for a third winter, in support of further implementation, operational use, and possible maintenance of the on-board warning systems on seven snowplows across northern Arizona.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Sam Elters, Rance Spurlock, Tom Steinberger
and Bruce Mejia
ADOT – Kingman District
John Harper, Kent Link, Danny Russell,
Ernie Sanchez, Tim Bighorse, Mike Gutzwiller
ADOT – Flagstaff District
Dave Sikes, Randy Routhier, Robert Wilbanks,
Frances McCauley, and Gilbert Nastacio
ADOT – Holbrook District
Dennis Halachoff, Larry Presnall, Carl Eyrich,
Steve Carspecken, Jim Finley, Dean Murgiuc
ADOT Equipment Services
Lt. Dan Wells Arizona Department of Public Safety
George Howard National Weather Service
Tim Wolfe, Manny Agah ADOT Transportation Technology
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration

 

 

 
Project 512, FY 2001

ITS Traffic Data Master System

Research Agency:

OZ Engineering

Program Date: 07/01/00
Principal Investigator(s):

Tomas Guerra

Contract Date: 04/12/02
Contract Amount:

$214, 889

Original Completion Date: 04/30/03
Program Budget:

$215,000

Estimated Completion Date: 09/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$120,493

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$94,507

Advantage No.: R0512 13P
Percent complete
through 6/30/2004:


90%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Steve Owen

PROBLEM STATEMENT

A variety of independent ADOT systems currently monitor and report traffic activity, as well as roadway and weather conditions across Arizona. This range of field data includes traffic counts, weather data, signal timing, Variable Message Sign (VMS) displays, video signals, and the web-based Highway Condition Reporting System (HCRS) dynamic database.

Data formats vary, and the full range and detail of this valuable information is not consistently available to ADOT managers at state and district operations centers and in the field. There is a vital need to consolidate these key dynamic data sources and to provide consistent, user-friendly, “one-screen” access for more effective “big-picture” management of the state’s highways. The goal of the research is to provide direct links to these programs from the HCRS operator screen.

A related urgent need is to deliver critical real-time information on highway conditions and roadway operating decisions to the public. Location, range, cost or other constraints can limit real-time traveler information. A second key goal of this project is more timely, accessible, and reliable traveler information for the public.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the project are:

  1. Review and recommend to ADOT on the ability to consolidate new operational software programs into ADOT’s HCRS system, to provide key dynamic roadway data.
  2. Proceed to develop the links and interfaces into HCRS for those systems that are judged to have the greatest potential for success.

The consultant’s workscope involves the following tasks:

  1. Evaluate ADOT’s currently monitored operational data types, system bases and formats.
  2. Review and assess the design and operating status of the Highway Condition Reporting System, as recently converted to a web-based resource by ADOT.
  3. Design user-friendly software to consolidate, on the HCRS workstation front-end screen, all currently available dynamic and static data from three target third-party operating systems for highway system management. These are Variable Message Signs, closed-circuit video, and automatic vehicle location systems (impractical – goal replaced by NWS weather data).
  4. Develop workplans and feasibility recommendations for approval, to achieve the above.
  5. Develop the required links and access to HCRS for the recommended information systems.
  6. Test and demonstrate the new access programs for HCRS.
  7. Support the implementation of these new systems by consolidation with HCRS.
  8. Prepare a detailed Final Report and summary Research Note on the project.
  9. Make a final executive presentation to ADOT.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The primary goal to consolidate roadway data sources will be implemented as soon as possible with the web-based HCRS system already in use statewide. This project will develop valuable new tools for operational management of the highway system by and among the Districts, and, for better rural delivery of critical traveler information.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The consultant, OZ Engineering, had a major role in developing the web-based ADOT Highway Condition Reporting System. Initial goals were substantially completed in 2003, to consolidate the three primary data systems (VMS, cameras, and weather data) with HCRS. As some project budget remained, a proposal was requested for a second level of traveler-information and HCRS operational upgrades. This work was approved and “user-friendly” enhancements for HCRS were added to the scope with a $15,000 funding increase. However, the new work by OZ was delayed due to third-party problems with the delivery of other high-priority HCRS data systems. As a result the 512 project was delayed until April 2004, when work on final tasks was resumed. The draft Final Report has also been initiated concurrently.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC):

John Harper ADOT Flagstaff District Engineer (Champion)
Cindy Morris ADOT Kingman District
Randy Routhier ADOT Holbrook District
Jami Garrison, Wayne Rich ADOT Transportation Planning Division
Tim Wolfe, Manny Agah,
Glenn Jonas, Kathie Beshoner,
Darrel Bingham
ADOT TTG / Traffic Operations Center
Doug Nintzel ADOT Community Relations
Veronica Ergazos ADOT Information Technology Group
Brian Wilcox, Dan Wells Arizona Department of Public Safety
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration

 


Project 557, FY 2003

Railroad & Highway Crossing Cooperative Signal Control

Research Agency:

Northern Arizona
University

Program Date: 10/01/02
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Craig Roberts

Contract (JPA) Date: 03/14/03
Contract Amount (SPR):

$155,000

Original Completion Date: 09/30/04
Project Budget:

$155,000

Estimated Completion Date: 09/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$84,553

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$70,467

TRACS No.: R0557 15P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


65%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(ITS Project Manager)

Steve Owen

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Railroad grade crossings create traffic control problems that severely impact traffic flow. Safety problems occur in urban areas when a street that feeds into a parallel arterial has a grade crossing near that intersection. Here, the left and right-turn arterial stacking lanes may overflow onto the parallel arterial mainline as a passing train blocks the minor street. At Flagstaff, this condition exists on SR 89 / Route 66 at the Enterprise Road intersection, with more than 85 trains per day.

Similar safety problems occur in semi-rural areas where grade crossings for feeder roads at freeway interchanges lead to long blockages of peak hour traffic, causing severe congestion. Even worse, overflows of queued vehicles onto the freeway mainline can occur as ramp capacity is exceeded. Smaller towns as well as larger cities have these problems and both the Pima and Maricopa County metropolitan areas recognize the issues and support the search for remedies.

In many of these cases, where highways and railroads are parallel, ADOT manages the affected traffic signals. ADOT currently has approximately 30 traffic signals with train preemption. Increases in both train traffic and vehicular traffic are predicted, as Arizona continues to grow.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE

This project will develop site-specific, enhanced train clearance algorithms that can provide significantly more green time, before the arrival of a train, to reduce overflows and congestion.

ITS technology can monitor train speed, acceleration, deceleration, and length far in advance of current systems that give a minimum 20 seconds of warning time. This data can enable new site-specific prediction models of train arrival times and crossing durations. Operating in real-time, the models can provide very early predictions to intersection signal controllers. Variable Message Signs can also communicate this real-time information to motorists.

The hardware for this ITS application already exists, and existing microscopic simulation software can be modified to provide real-time traffic data for individual vehicle movements, enabling an actuated controller to control the site signals. This software-hardware interfacing, or “hardware-in-the-loop” simulation, is an effective prototyping tool. These site-specific ITS prototypes can be rigorously evaluated using multiple Measures of Effectiveness. Hardware-in-the-loop simulation, with site-specific prediction models and control algorithm development offers ADOT a very high level of risk reduction for deployment in the future.

The following phases of research will be performed:

1.      Sites selection, development of off-track detection methods, and site data collection.
2.      Development of site-specific train arrival prediction models.
3.      Prototyping ITS signal processing and microscopic simulation of site traffic.
4.      Hardware-in-the-loop prototype development, site-specific controller algorithm development.
5.      Total system prototype validation using second data set.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The only effective solution currently is grade separation structures, but the need and the cost far outstrip ADOT’s ability to build them. The result of this applied research will be a congestion-mobility management tool for these situations, as growth continues and as traffic increases.

This project will benefit both the public and ADOT with regard to safety and to congestion-mobility management. Benefits of future application of this research will include:

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project was initiated through a JPA with the University in March 2003. Acquisitions of equipment, modeling software training, and field data collection were initial activities. VISSIM model development has been completed and signal control scenarios are being developed to establish the critical proof of concept, and thus to consider additional test sites in a second phase. Note – a Phase 2 proposal was not approved for FY ’05 by the ADOT Research Council.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Tim Wolfe Transportation Technology Group
John Harper, Chuck Gillick Flagstaff District
Sam Elters Kingman District
Tom Goodman, Mike Lessard,
and Ann Phillips
Traffic Engineering
Ken Cooper Roadway Standards
George Wendt Risk Management
Gerry Craig, Steven Hill City of Flagstaff
David Wessel Flagstaff MPO
Dennis Roberts City of Kingman
Mike McCallister, Dan Owsley Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration

 

 

Project 561, FY 2003

Transportation Communications Interoperability Phase 1 – Needs Evaluation

Research Agency:

ITS Engineers

Program Date: 10/01/02
Principal Investigator(s):

Michael Wendtland

Contract (or JPA) Date: 10/16/03
Contract Amount (SPR):

$40,000

Original Completion Date: 6/30/04
Project Budget:

$40,000

Estimated Completion Date: 9/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$36,000

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$4,000

TRACS No.: R0561 15P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04:


95%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(ITS Project Manager)

Steve Owen

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Communication is the key to all ADOT operations and emergency response roles in both rural and urban areas of Arizona, from daily maintenance to events to incidents to regional security issues. Currently no single radio frequency allows for all responder groups to talk to each other. A critical need exists for secure cross-channel communications, on the present radio systems, both within ADOT and with its transportation agency and emergency response partners of all levels. Radio interoperability technology can overcome the lack of a common frequency, channel, or system between response team agencies, and across jurisdictional boundaries.

Homeland security concerns have created a new incentive, and new resources, to address key communications issues at all levels through strategic plans and interagency partnerships. However, the critical focus on homeland security must not downplay transportation-specific concerns. This Phase 1 communications systems research project will address current specific challenges of radio interoperability for ADOT and for its transportation-agency partners.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE

Overall, this program’s objective is to enhance ADOT’s performance in homeland security, enforcement, roadway incidents, and operations, by improving interagency communications. This Phase 1 Needs Evaluation will assess the current ADOT capabilities, constraints, problems, practices, and equipment in detail, and will also do the same for ADOT’s partner agencies.

One key goal is to develop an Arizona database of current radio systems, frequencies, hardware, software, and operating plans currently in use by local and regional transportation agencies. This information will support ADOT’s strategic planning, and also its effective coordination with the larger communications upgrade programs being developed at the state level specifically for homeland security.

A second key goal is to review and recommend the best interoperable system configurations and processes for Arizona’s rural transportation system. ADOT is always a primary responder, and it sometimes is the lead agency for incidents, events and operations of all types. This project will recommend whether a central, regional, or district-level system, or some combination thereof, would best support both ADOT’s internal needs and its partnership responsibilities. The effort will include the development of test plans to validate the recommendations under the variable communications conditions found across rural Arizona.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

ADOT’s Kingman and Flagstaff Districts and the ADOT Homeland Security Task Force are joint sponsors for this project, with technical and advisory support from Arizona DPS.

This project will define effective transportation interoperability in remote rural conditions across Arizona, and it will support ADOT’s planning, and future tests and deployments, for operations and for local and regional incident response and command.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project conducted a series of six workshops in rural districts across Arizona, involving both ADOT field forces and partner agencies. A database was developed including agency contacts and the details of radio systems and operational practices. The project has developed near- and mid-term recommendations to improve ADOT’s operational communications, including several near-term pilot projects to validate these concepts. Reviews of the final report are in progress.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Project Champions are Lonnie Hendrix and Tim Wolfe (for ADOT’s Homeland Security Task Force), with the Flagstaff & Kingman Districts. ADOT’s Homeland Security Communications Subteam serves as the project TAC.

Tim Wolfe Transportation Technology Group
Sonya Herrera ADOT Safety & Health
Lori Elzy MVD Enforcement
Scott Grissom MVD Enforcement
Denise Johnson Information Technology Group
John Harper Flagstaff District
Steve Puzas Safford District
Manny Agah Traffic Operations Center
Jim Dorre ADOT Central Maintenance
John Hauskins Phoenix Maintenance District
Lonnie Hendrix ADOT Homeland Security Task Force
Curt Knight Arizona DPS Telecommunications
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration

 

 

 

Project 562, FY 2003

ITS Program Acceptance in Elderly Communities

Research Agency:

Arizona State
University

Program Date: 10/01/02
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Mary Kihl

Contract (JPA) Date: 8/18/03
Contract Amount (SPR):

$15,000

Original Completion Date: 8/31/04
Project Budget (w/ MAG):

$30,000

Estimated Completion Date: 8/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$5,462

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$9,538

TRACS No.: R0562 15P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04:


95%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(ITS Project Manager)

Steve Owen

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The proportion of the population over 65 is expected to double by 2040. Elderly drivers are an increasing element of the population, and with advanced age come increasing challenges to safe and efficient travel, and overall mobility for the individual. As the proportion of elderly citizens increases, it will be important to take advantage of every opportunity to enhance the driving ability of older drivers. Research has been conducted nationally into the needs of the elderly for Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATIS), as well as the special characteristics of the elderly that may impact Intelligent Transportation System design and deployment. Key findings of earlier studies with regard to elderly drivers include:

However, very little research has been conducted into the elderly community’s reaction to such overall ITS program implementations as ADOT has deployed in metro Phoenix (CCTV cameras, Variable Message Signs, traffic detection, signal coordination, ramp metering, the national 511 system, and web-based traveler information). If ITS is planned and deployed effectively with regard to the concerns and limitations of the elderly drivers, the potential increase in roadway safety could be quite significant.

The acceptance and utilization of ITS by older drivers will be an important factor influencing future ITS implementations in those areas with concentrated and expanding elderly populations. One such potential study site would be in the West Valley (Loop 101, Bell Road, Loop 303, and Grand Avenue). Other sites and elderly populations in the East Valley will also be considered, in order to achieve balanced results from across the metropolitan region.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this project are to identify the level of elderly travelers’ satisfaction with ITS implementations on ADOT facilities, in particular the variable message signs, ramp meters, and traveler information systems, and to recommend potential improvements in operation and design. The primary project elements would be:

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This research will help develop transportation strategies to improve the overall efficiency of the transportation system with regard to significant elements of the driving population. Information is essential to inform decision-makers at all levels – federal, state and local – on issues regarding ITS acceptance by the elderly population. The process owner is the Transportation Technology Group of ADOT, who ultimately would determine how the research results will be integrated into the state’s ITS planning and operational activities.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project is in progress. The total project budget includes a 50 percent contribution by Maricopa Association of Governments.

Over the 2003-04 winter, mature-driver focus groups were conducted in both the eastern and western regions of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Also, a control group of younger drivers was similarly involved. A key area of this research is to evaluate ADOT’s 511 traveler information system and its linked az511.com website. Due to progressive updates of the phone system and the website, limited follow-up evaluations are planned as the project approaches completion. At the same time, however, work is under way on the draft project final report.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Dr. Sarath Joshua MAG (Maricopa Association of Governments, co-sponsor)
Jim Decker AZTech Executive Committee / City of Tempe, co-sponsor
Cydney DeModica Motor Vehicle Division
Tim Wolfe ADOT Transportation Technology Group
Manny Agah ADOT Transportation Technology Group
Lydia Warnick ADOT TTG / Traffic Operations Center
Dave Wolfson Maricopa County DOT
Reed Henry Traffic Engineering Group
Mike Marietti Traffic Engineering Group
Cindy Eiserman ADOT Risk Management
Lt. Tim Lane Arizona Department of Public Safety
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration

 

 

 

Project 569, FY 2004

Transportation Communications Interoperability Phase 2 – Resource Evaluation

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract (or JPA) Date: Pending
Contract Amount (SPR):

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Project Budget:

$150,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? N/A
Available Amount:

$150,000

TRACS No.: R0569 16P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04:


0 %

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(ITS Project Manager)

Steve Owen

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Communication is the key to all ADOT operations and emergency response roles in both rural and urban areas of Arizona, from daily maintenance to events to incidents to regional security issues. There is currently no single radio frequency to allow all responder groups to talk to each other. A critical need exists for secure cross-channel communications on present radio systems, both within ADOT and with transportation agency and emergency response partners at all levels. Radio interoperability technology can overcome the lack of a common frequency, channel, or system between response team agencies, and across jurisdictional boundaries.

Homeland security concerns provide a new incentive, and new resources, to resolve Arizona’s communications issues at all levels, through strategic planning and interagency partnerships. Interoperability is a statewide need, both for incident management and in Homeland Security situations, and is the core goal of a long-term (2010+) communications strategic planning effort by the Public Safety Communications Committee (PSCC) and the Department of Public Safety.

However, the critical focus on homeland security must not downplay transportation-specific concerns. This Phase 2 communications systems research project will evaluate near and mid-term operational interoperability solutions for ADOT and for its transportation-agency partners.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

This program, in two phases, seeks to enhance ADOT’s performance in homeland security, enforcement, roadway incidents, and operations, by improving interagency communications. This new Phase 2 Resource Planning project will build on the results of the current SPR-561 Needs Assessment research (Phase 1) with regard to the current status of ADOT transportation communications, the radio frequencies and systems currently in use across the state by partner agencies, and ADOT’s priorities as defined for near-term solutions.

This new project will evaluate near- and mid-term solutions for the day-to-day communications constraints and agency issues in the statewide transportation environment. It will also seek to coordinate these potential solutions with the statewide interoperability plan and development schedule as determined by the PSCC, as well as other Arizona homeland security programs.

Through a series of small-scale local pilot projects, this Phase 2 research will validate the near-term recommended communications enhancements for ADOT and its core partners, based on the Department’s statewide roles, needs and responsibilities. The regional pilot deployment efforts, if successful, will form the basis for statewide ADOT radio system upgrades that may be enabled with Homeland Security resources. Future implementation strategies at multiple levels will also be refined, based upon the potential availability of funding grants from various public safety and security resources.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The transportation communications resources to be evaluated in this Phase 2 project will enhance both day-to-day and emergency operations, and effectiveness, for ADOT in its key roles. It will provide better field communications in the selected pilot project areas, and will therefore justify near-term statewide applications of the key Phase 1 recommendations.

A key benefit of this project will be more timely and effective ADOT responses in all multi-agency emergencies, and better fulfillment of critical ADOT obligations in homeland security. It will also help to develop common goals and procedures among other transportation agencies and key partners in the State, with regard to improved operational effectiveness in all areas.

Enhanced field and regional communications will enable better decisions, faster response, more efficiency, and more lives and property saved in all situations – both in any crisis, and, in all day-to-day activities.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project has not yet been initiated

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Project Champions are Lonnie Hendrix and Tim Wolfe (both of ADOT’s Homeland Security Task Force), with the Flagstaff & Kingman Districts.

The ADOT Homeland Security Communications Subteam will be the core of the project TAC.

Tim Wolfe Transportation Technology Group
Sonya Herrera ADOT Safety & Health
Lori Elzy MVD Enforcement
Scott Grissom MVD Enforcement
Denise Johnson Information Technology Group
John Harper Flagstaff District
Steve Puzas Safford District
Manny Agah Traffic Operations Center
Jim Dorre ADOT Central Maintenance
John Hauskins Phoenix Maintenance District
Lonnie Hendrix ADOT Homeland Security Task Force
Curt Knight Arizona DPS Telecommunications
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration

 

 

 

Project 570, FY 2004

Rural ITS Progress Study – Arizona 2004

Research Agency:

ITS Engineers

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Andrew Kolcz

Contract (JPA) Date: 04/08/04
Contract Amount (SPR):

$60,000

Original Completion Date: 12/31/04
Project Budget:

$60,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$4,800

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$55,200

TRACS No.: R0570 16P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04:


30 %

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(ITS Project Manager)

Steve Owen

PROBLEM STATEMENT

In December 1998, ADOT completed Research Project SPR-457, a Strategic Plan for Statewide Deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems. Since Arizona’s statewide ITS design was completed, there has been an extensive deployment of the most critical systems in the plan. Now, after more than five years of implementation, the need exists for ADOT to review and to evaluate the key ITS concepts and hardware that are being used in rural Arizona on a wide scale.

The Kingman District in particular has been a key location for the early deployment of ADOT’s new ITS concepts, with the I-40 Corridor and the US 93 NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) Corridor meeting in Kingman. Hoover Dam and other Colorado River crossings are also critical to commerce and to national security. Also, in addition to the statewide plan, several other new ITS programs are being tested for the first time by the Kingman District, and these may be significant for the rest of Arizona. This district will therefore be the primary area of focus in this statewide evaluation project.

 

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

There are four primary goals for this Arizona rural ITS evaluation project:

An evaluation program will be developed to assess the performance of the key rural ITS systems used in rural Arizona. The study will review the results for each key system, as regards costs, benefits, reliability, and level of meeting client needs. It will then evaluate these individual technologies as integrated operational resources for management of the state highway system.

The project will involve a variety of outreach efforts, to include focus groups, mail, e-mail or phone contacts, and interviews. The primary emphasis will be on ADOT staff and key partners at several levels, with a secondary focus on the traveling public. Internal contacts will focus on reviewing systems status and performance issues at the state, district and local levels. Traveler contacts will assess the public’s perceptions of ITS, and the related travel information as provided by ADOT and by other agencies.

Currently-deployed ITS-based elements in the study, as prioritized by the project TAC, include: VMS, HCRS, remote video cameras, Road Weather Information System (RWIS), the AZ511 travel information system, and the Statewide Incident Management Plan.

The project will primarily focus on the Kingman District. In addition to the above systems, this District also has tested many other innovative ITS-related concepts including portable VMS, Motorist Assist Patrols, emergency callboxes, truck escape ramp intrusion sensors and cameras, travel time monitoring with license plate readers, and Highway Advisory Radio.

This research project will evaluate and report on the performance of the statewide rural ITS system, with the main emphasis on northern Arizona’s I-40 Corridor, where ADOT previously carried out an early deployment plan. Other less ITS-active rural highway corridors will also be reviewed for comparison, such as US 60, US 89, I-10, I-17, SR 87 and/or SR 260.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The significant value of this research for ADOT lies in validating the investment in current Rural ITS systems and concepts, and in identifying potential improvements for the future. This research will provide a detailed performance assessment of the critical systems, and of the overall ITS benefits to highway operations. It will enable better application of future resources, and may offer new ways to enhance the effectiveness of the current systems.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project was initiated in April 2004, and is conducting workshops in each ADOT district to assess the extent of use and the effectiveness of the systems deployed to date. Further data is being sought through public surveys, including a link from ADOT’s AZ511.com website.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Sam Elters Kingman District Engineer (Champion)
Mike Kondelis Kingman District Maintenance
John Harper Flagstaff District Engineer
Carl Burkhalter Flagstaff District Construction
Dave Sikes Holbrook District Engineer
Randy Routhier Holbrook District Maintenance Engineer
Mike Seney Willcox Maintenance (Safford District)
Bill Harmon Safford District Maintenance
Tim Wolfe Transportation Technology Group (Champion)
Doug Nintzel Community Relations Office
Jack Petersen Information Technology Group
Cmdr. Bill McCance DPS Northern Highway Patrol Bureau
Lt. Ron DeLong DPS District One - Kingman
Debbie Henry DPS Operational Communications Bureau
Brian Klimowski National Weather Service, Flagstaff (NOAA)

 

 

 

Project 585, FY 2005

Snowplow Simulator Training Evaluation

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date:

10/01/04

Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

JPA Date:

Pending

Contract Amount (SPR):

Pending

Original Completion Date:

Pending

Project Budget:

$100,000

Estimated Completion Date:

Pending

Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule?

N/A

Available Amount:

$100,000

TRACS No.:

R0585 17P

Percent complete
through 6/30/04

0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)


Steve Owen

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Snowplow operators face the most demanding set of operating tasks in the worst weather and traffic conditions. They work long and stressful shifts in snowstorms at any hour of any day throughout the winter. ADOT operators must not only “drive” a $250,000 snowplow, they also must operate spreader and plow controls, monitor the truck’s instruments and radios, and stay focused on the weather and highway surface conditions and on the traffic around them.

Current operator training, with limited budgets and manpower shortages, often consists of sending out new drivers into winter storms with a partner-mentor-trainer for only a few work shifts, at best. For this level of skill and responsibility, such training is just marginally adequate.

ADOT will conduct a pilot program of snowplow operator training with new state-of-the-art simulator technologies. This research will test the effectiveness of realistic situational driver training in a safe off-highway environment. Simulator training can build decision-making skills for emergency situations before the operators are sent out alone on the roadway in a snowplow or other heavy vehicle. The significant investment in equipment justifies the development of an improved, more effective training program.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

ADOT’s Highways Division training staff will contract the training services for the pilot project from the snowplow-simulator system developer. The goal of this evaluation research project is to support and document the simulator training activity, and the long-term snowplowing safety record of the pilot program trainees. The primary task elements of this research effort are:

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results of this research will justify and support the future establishment of training-simulator facilities by ADOT for its equipment operators, both for the State’s critical snowplow operations and with the potential to support other types of heavy equipment training. Future options for ADOT may include the purchase of simulators, a lease program, or ongoing vendor services.

Improved driver skills and confidence will enhance safety for ADOT equipment operators. This in turn will provide better road conditions, improved driving safety, and enhanced schedule reliability both for the motoring public and for time-sensitive commercial freight operations.

Equipment operator retention may be measurably improved if better training enhances skills and confidence. This may reduce overall driver stress levels, increase job satisfaction, and improve performance in emergencies. Further significant value may be derived from reduced crashes and incidents involving ADOT fleet units and the public.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project has not yet been initiated.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Erika Martinez ITD Technical Training (Champion)
Annie Parris ITD Technical Training
Diane Minton State Engineer’s Office
Myra Rothman Flagstaff District Training / Safety & Health
Dennis Halachoff State Equipment Services Manager (Champion)
Rick Powers Globe District Engineer (Sponsor)
John Harper Flagstaff District Engineer (Sponsor)
Dennis Johnson Williams Maintenance Supervisor (Flagstaff District)
Carl Eyrich Flagstaff Equipment Shop
Martha Mann Safety & Health Section
Sue Olson Risk Management Section
Cindy Eiserman Risk Management Section
Reed Henry Traffic Engineering Group
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration

 

 

 

Project 595, FY 2004

Real-time Adaptive Ramp Metering: Simulation & Implementation

Research Agency:

University of Arizona

Program Date:

10/01/03

Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Pitu Mirchandani

JPA Date:

Pending

Contract Amount (SPR):

Pending

Original Completion Date:

Pending

Project Budget:

$100,000

Estimated Completion Date:

Pending

Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule?

N/A

Available Amount:

$100,000

TRACS No.:

R0595 16P

Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Steve Owen

PROBLEM STATEMENT

ADOT’s Freeway Management System is designed to apply “smart” ramp metering, taking into account the impacts on mainline freeway traffic flow. However, since its inception, smart real-time traffic-adaptive ramp metering has never been implemented.

Planned FMS controller upgrades, and existing communication infrastructure, would allow the full utilization of new ramp metering control strategies, such as the U of A’s traffic-adaptive MILOS program, on extended freeway corridors. Such “smart” corridors will make ramp-metered traffic flows smoother and improve the operation of system interchanges and connecting corridors in the region. This project’s corridor simulation modeling would validate the traffic-adaptive concept (this Phase 1), and will justify its early implementation when the FMS is upgraded (a Phase 2 effort, should it be shown beneficial in simulations).

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

ADOT’s Transportation Technology and Traffic Engineering Groups will support the research effort in coordination with planned near-term Freeway Management System upgrades, as well as new FMS construction, in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The objectives of this research phase are three-fold:

  1. Collect traffic data for selected freeway corridors and regions of the Valley.
  2. Develop corridor and region-wide simulation models to evaluate UA’s traffic-adaptive MILOS, and similar programs, against the current fixed-time and traffic-responsive systems.
  3. Run the simulation models and analyze performance of all three strategies, studying the key congestion measures including bottlenecks, travel times, and smoothness of flows.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This research will enable the full utilization in the near future of traffic-adaptive concepts and capabilities for which a platform is already designed in the ADOT FMS system. Significant benefits including reduced congestion, reduced emissions and improved safety.

This project will establish the basis for field evaluations of the most promising smart ramp metering system, when the planned hardware upgrades have been completed for the Valley’s Freeway Management System.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project has not yet been initiated.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Tim Wolfe Transportation Technology Group (Champion)
Manny Agah Transportation Technology Group – TOC Manager
Darrell Bingham Transportation Technology Group
Mike Manthey Traffic Engineering Group
TBD Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG)
TBD Traffic Engineers – Valley Cities
Alan Hansen Federal Highway Administration

 

 

 

Maintenance

Project 371, FY 1995
Maintenance Cost Effectiveness Study.

Research Agency:

Arizona Department of
Transportation

Program Date: 07/01/94
Principal Investigator(s):

Larry Scofield

Contract Date: NA
Contract Amount: NA Original Completion Date: 09/30/02
Program Budget:

$238,945

Estimated Completion Date: 09/30/09
Expenditures to date:

$168,056

Is project on schedule?

Yes
Available Amount

$71,107

Advantage No.: R037113P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


50%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) investigated the cost effectiveness of several pavement surface treatment alternatives. However, the resulting data and analysis have not provided needed techniques and information for developing and promoting cost-effective pavement maintenance strategies.

The effectiveness of many maintenance activities such as pothole repair, crack sealing, flushing, surface treatments, etc., vary from area to area and their performance is difficult to quantify at a network or project level. In addition, considerable use of asphalt rubber is occurring by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). The preventive maintenance activities such as flushing, patching, etc. could be significantly different for these roadways. ADOT needs to establish procedures for the effective treatment of these products.

Many proprietary products have potential for providing cost-effective maintenance treatments. However, low-bid procurement processes often inhibit the use of these products due to the lack of information available to develop justifications based on “public interest." Additionally, innovative contracting procedures such as warranted work are currently difficult to implement. Evaluation of the current laws and procurement procedures are necessary to determine how some of these other alternative procurement processes can be utilized.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this project are to: (1) identify the maintenance surface treatment alternatives suitable for evaluation by ADOT, (2) develop a consensus on which alternatives to test, (3) determine the performance and cost effectiveness of these treatments, and (4) identify procurement issues which inhibit effective pavement maintenance and recommend solutions to these issues. This will be accomplished by developing an experimental design and constructing and evaluating test sections.

At a minimum, the following tasks will be accomplished:

  1. Meet with the project TAC to review the scope of work and work plan.
  2. Review on-going research activities such as ADOT’s work, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) program, Texas SMERP program, innovative contracting procedures, etc.
  3. Canvas ADOT maintenance organizations for current pavement surface maintenance procedures and needs. Prepare a working paper describing these efforts. The working paper should clearly identify the research needs and the recommended treatments for evaluation.
  4. Develop a statistically based research plan that allows the determination of the cost-effectiveness of the pavement surface maintenance strategies. The plan will include all the required testing, including quality control testing, performance criteria and evaluation plans and procedures.
  5. Prepare a working paper that documents the procurement issues and recommends solutions. Issues such as warranty contracts, etc. will be evaluated in view of Arizona’s procurement laws and procedures.
  6. Document the construction activities of each of the sections and provide the sampling and testing specified in the experimental plan.
  7. Monitor and evaluate the test sections for a minimum of five years.
  8. Prepare annual reports and Research Notes documenting the performance to date of the test sections.
  9. Prepare a final report which determines the cost effectiveness of the various maintenance strategies and recommends specific alternatives for the appropriate maintenance areas.
  10. Prepare a final report and Research Note of the literature review, research methodology, findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
  11. Make an executive presentation to the Research Council at the conclusion of the Project.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The project will provide life cycle surface treatment comparisons that can be used to select maintenance strategies and for cost effective surface treatments for new construction.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

One hundred ninety three test sections have been constructed. An additional 84 test sections were to be constructed in the fall of 2002 but the construction project was cancelled. The project is being conducted in three phases: Phase I Wearing Course Experiment; Phase II Surface Treatment Experiment; and Phase III Sealer Rejuvenator Experiment. Phase I and II is complete. Phase III, which is being conducted in conjunction with the FHWA National Sealer/Rejuvenator project, will have a total of 60 –70 test sections placed in addition to the 193test sections constructed in support of phase I and II. The participating states are AZ, AL, CA, MN, and MI. Phase III test sections have been placed on SR 87 near Winslow and a second set will be place on US 93 near Nothing, Arizona. The second round of sealer-rejuvenator applications will occur in July-September.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Doug Forstie State Engineer’s Office
MSLT Statewide
Jim Dorre Central Maintenance
NEW STAFF ATRC

 

 

 

Project 459, FY 1997

An Environmentally Acceptable Cold Mix for Statewide Use.

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 07/01/96
Principal Investigator(s):

Larry Scofield

Contract Date: Not Applicable
Contract Amount: Not Applicable Original Completion Date: Not Applicable
Program Budget:

$124,814

Estimated Completion Date: 3/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$200

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount

$124,614

Advantage No.: R045911P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


80%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

In the rural areas MC-250 is the product of choice for filling potholes, fixing road base failures, and providing level-ups. Often times MC-250 is mixed with locally available aggregate on road tables and blended at the maintenance yard. It is then stockpiled for up to six months to a year and used as needed. At other locations, the MC-250 is obtained from commercial sources and stockpiled for future use. MC-250 cold mix is very inexpensive when compared to other types of paving and patching materials.

Commercially available alternatives to MC-250 are typically significantly more expensive (perhaps three to four times more expensive), or they did not have an adequate shelf life to remain in storage for a minimum of six months.

MC-250 contains volatiles that exceed the air quality standards for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and is no longer used in the active enforcement areas. Although still permissible in some areas, it will eventually not be an option.

There is a need to find an alternative material(s) for MC-250 or alternative ways of doing business. For example it may be possible to obtain commercial materials so that there is not a need to stockpile for any more than two to three months. This might make it possible to use other materials that are not now considered acceptable. Similarly other techniques for leveling may be considered

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this research are to establish products and or processes that can replace MC-250 for its intended functions.

The minimum following tasks will be performed:

  1. Canvass Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) maintenance organizations for an understanding of just how MC-250 is currently being used.
  2. Conduct a search for available alternative materials and processes.
  3. Canvass other agencies for their solutions to this problem.
  4. Canvass locally available commercial sources for their ability to provide acceptable alternative products.
  5. Develop a list of recommended products/and or process changes for evaluation by ADOT under field test conditions.
  6. Conduct trial tests in at least three different maintenance orgs for suitability and performance for six months.
  7. Prepare a final report documenting the efforts of the study and the conclusions and recommendations.
  8. Prepare a Research Note in accordance with Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) procedures.
  9. Conduct an executive presentation to the Research Council.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The products and or processes recommended in this study will be used to replace MC-250 for all of its current uses.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

New Mix Design procedures, based on the Asphalt Institutes MS-14 methodology, were implemented for the 2004 cold mix procurement. Field evaluations of the cold mix production are on-going.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Danny Russel Flagstaff District
Jim Dorre Central Maintenance
Doug Forstie State Engineer’s Office
Jim Delton Materials Group
NEW STAFF ATRC

 

Project 494, FY 2000

Enhance the Pavement Management System so that It Can Determine Preventive Maintenance Strategy Effectiveness

Research Agency:

Stantec

Program Date: 07/01/99
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: 07/31/02
Contract Amount: Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$215,000

Estimated Completion Date: 10/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$7,400

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$207,600

Advantage No.: R049412P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


95%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) pavement management system (PMS) is used to allocate expenditures on pavement preservation. Data is collected annually on roughness, skid, cracking, rutting and flushing. This data is entered into the PMS system to allocate resources and to provide input into the pavement design function. One of the data fields that the PMS uses in project selection is the average maintenance expenditure per year. The expenditure is obtained from uploading data from the PECOS system.

The PMS system provides a continuous database of pavement performance for the state network.

Maintenance activities, such as preventive maintenance, are all recorded in the PECOS system. PECOS is a resource allocation system that tracks labor, materials and equipment. It does not track the outcome of the activity such as pavement performance for preventive maintenance activities.

There currently is no maintenance process by which outcomes, such as improved pavement performance, can be measured except through personal observation by the individuals applying them.

There is a need to develop a system that allows evaluation of the outcomes of maintenance activities so that their cost effectiveness can be determined and used in development of pavement preservation strategies.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to develop a process that provides the ability to measure the outcomes of the pavement related maintenance activities.

The minimum following activities will be performed:

  1. Evaluate the measures of effectiveness necessary to demonstrate the effectiveness of pavement preservation activities.
  2. Canvass other states for their procedures for managing the effectiveness of pavement activities.
  3. Review the available pavement management systems and asset management systems for application to the maintenance function.
  4. Recommend the preferred system/PMS enhancement for use.
  5. Develop a working system for delivery to ADOT.
  6. Develop an operations manual for using the system.
  7. Prepare a final report documenting the efforts of the study and the conclusions and recommendations.
  8. Prepare a Research Note in accordance with Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) procedures.
  9. Conduct an executive presentation to the Research Council.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The product of this a new PMS system for the Department that will support both the PMS for materials and the preventive maintenance program for district maintenance.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The new PMS has been installed and has begun its two year warranty period.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Lonnie Hendrix Central Maintenance
Jim Delton Materials Group
Roy Alvis Prescott District
Veronica Escargoza ITG
NEW STAFF ATRC
Joel Miller Globe District
Frank McCullagh TPD
Younggi Li Materials Group

 

 

 

Project 500, FY 2000

Aggregate Sources for Construction and Maintenance in Northern Arizona.

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 07/01/99
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

0

Estimated Completion Date: 6/30/06
Expenditures to date:

0

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount

0

Advantage No.: R049812P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


3%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

For the greater part of the interstate construction program, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) maintained the responsibility to locate acceptable aggregate sources for construction purposes. ADOT would locate sources of material, obtain all clearances and permits and perform the geotechnical analysis of the pit composition. At one time, ADOT maintained a database of over 8,000 material pits located around the state. This process made ADOT liable for material acceptability and often times resulted in claims from the contracting industry based upon misrepresentation of the character or quantity of material involved.

In more recent times ADOT turned over the material source issue to the contracting sector. The contractor currently is responsible for locating and obtaining pits for each individual construction project. This makes the contractor entirely responsible for his quality and quantity of material obtained.

Recently, material sources are becoming increasingly more difficult to find and use, even for the private sector. Many of the material sources in northern Arizona are located within reservations and the Indian nations have been less willing to allow access and use.

The lack of material availability is even affecting aggregate sources for maintenance use. There is a need to provide reliable aggregate sources for construction and maintenance activities.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to identify the aggregate sources available for construction and maintenance in northern Arizona and to determine the means by which these sources will be used.

The following minimum tasks will be performed:

  1. Conduct a literature search relevant to available aggregate sources in Arizona.
  2. Canvass the construction industry and other governmental agencies to establish additional pit sources and potential options for providing aggregate sources such as regionally located designated sources and or designated locations where materials are transported to or where large aggregate crushing contracts are established to provide material sources for many projects.
  3. Canvass ADOT construction and maintenance personnel for problem identification and potential solutions.
  4. Determine the locations/potential locations of all available material sources in northern Arizona for use by the highway community.
  5. Prepare a working paper summarizing the recommendations for providing aggregate sources for construction and maintenance purposes in northern Arizona for the next ten years. The working paper will provide all the justification and supplemental information necessary to support the recommendations.
  6. Upon approval of the recommendations submitted in Task 5, develop an implementation plan that will provide the material sources necessary for construction and maintenance operations in northern Arizona for the next ten years. The plan will specify each location, the plan for developing the site(s) and any process changes necessary to use the sources.
  7. Prepare a final report documenting the efforts of the study and the conclusions and recommendations.
  8. Prepare a Research Note in accordance with Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) procedures.
  9. Conduct an executive presentation to the Research Council.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results from this research project will establish the aggregate sources for construction and maintenance activities in Northern Arizona.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project will be piggy-backed upon a previous effort by the state land department. Efforts are underway to form a new TAC and begin prosecution of the project.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Doug Forstie State Engineers Office
John Lawson Materials Group
Allan Samuels Construction Section
NEW STAFF ATRC

 

 

 

Project 520, FY 2001

Maintenance Repair Procedures for Bridge Decks.

Research Agency:

Applied Pavement Tech.

Program Date: 07/01/00
Principal Investigator(s):

David Peshkin

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

$30,000

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$30,000

Estimated Completion Date: 3/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$10,361

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$19,639

Advantage No.: R052013P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


35%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Larry Scofield

PROBLEM STATEMENT

A significant number of the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) bridges are twenty years and older. As these bridges age they deteriorate as a result of load related damage and from environmental damage such as freeze thaw action, sulfate attack, ASR activity, de-icing chemicals, etc.

Although the behavior of these environmental stresses is well documented, the detection and mitigation are difficult at best. It oftentimes requires sophisticated equipment and special materials.

Normal maintenance activities usually do not include repair to structures. However, as ADOT's aging structures become older and older repairs become more and more common. There is a need to provide both training and procedures for repairing bridge decks.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research project is to develop procedures and training materials for repair of bridge decks by maintenance forces.

The minimum following tasks will be performed:

  1. Review the types of conditions (i.e., distresses) that are occurring on ADOT bridges. (ADOT has recently conducted a field evaluation of its bridge decks and this information is available).
  2. Develop procedures for repairing bridge deck distresses for use by maintenance personnel.
  3. Develop a one day workshop on bridge deck repair.
  4. Develop a tutorial for bridge deck repair that is web based and includes photos with instructions and examples.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results of this research would be used in working practice by ADOT's maintenance personnel.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project has been re-scoped to develop a bridge preservation program process that includes, among other things, repair procedures. The project will identify the items to be considered in the preservation program, and develop specifications for each of the preservation work items to be contracted out. The bridge group, materials, and central maintenance are collaborating together to develop the work items, specifications, and contracting procedures.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Jean Nehme Bridge Group
Joel Miller Globe District
Jim Dorre Central Maintenance
NEW STAFF ATRC
Oscar Mousavi Materials Section

 

 

 

Project 533, FY 2002

Development of Materials for Repairing AR-ACFC Surfaces.

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/2001
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$0

Estimated Completion Date: 3/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount

$0

Advantage No.: R053314P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has traditionally placed an open-graded Asphalt Concrete Friction Course (ACFC) on all interstate and high volume roadways. Over the last ten years the department has changed from predominantly using ACFCs to using Asphalt-Rubber/Asphalt-Concrete Friction Courses (AR-ACFCs). These materials are installed as the final roadway surface and are what vehicle tires contact. These open graded materials are somewhat porous and are designed to drain the roadway surface quicker. As a result, they provide better wet-weather friction, better stripe delineation and produce less glare from headlights during inclement weather. They are also generally quieter than conventional dense graded mixtures.

Since these materials are somewhat porous, they cannot be repaired using conventional hot mix or cold mix materials that are typically non-porous. When non-porous materials are used, they behave as a dam within the AR-ACFC, trapping water and accelerating its deterioration. Currently there is no readily available material to repair AR-ACFC surfaces effectively. There is a need to develop and evaluate materials suitable for repairing AR-ACFC surfaces.

ADOT currently has an ongoing research project, SPR 459, to develop Environmentally Acceptable Materials as a Substitute for Cold Mix. The asphalt binders studied in this effort can be used for application to the open graded materials. However, there is a need to evaluate whether their performance will be acceptable.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this task are to develop/find materials for repairing AR-ACFCs and ACFCs and evaluate their acceptability for maintenance repairs.

The following tasks, at minimum, will be accomplished:

  1. Review available materials for repairing open graded friction courses and compare to the products considered for use in SPR 459.
  2. Produce repair materials and construct field test sections for evaluation.
  3. Monitor the performance of the materials for three years.
  4. Prepare a final report documenting the research methodologies, findings, and recommendations and conclusions.
  5. Prepare an Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) Research Note for distribution.
  6. Prepare an executive presentation on the findings to the Research Council.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

If the research is successful, implementation would be immediate. The products developed in this research would be used by ADOT maintenance to repair open graded friction courses.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This project will be developed concurrently with SPR 459

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Danny Russell Flagstaff District
Jim Dorre Central Maintenance
Doug Forstie State Engineer’s Office
NEW STAFF ATRC

 

 

 

Project 536, FY 2002

Improved Snow Plow Headlight Visibility and Reduced Driver Fatigue.

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/2001
Principal Investigator(s):

Larry Scofield

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

N/A

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$50,000

Estimated Completion Date: 4/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount

$50,000

Advantage No.: R053614P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


35%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Plowing snow is very difficult, but very necessary. Poor weather reduces visibility. This problem is further exacerbated by the need to mount headlights higher on the equipment so they shine over the plows. This often results in the plow lights being almost at the operators’ eye level, which is the worst condition for reflecting light back into the snowplow driver’s eyes, obscuring their vision even more. This headlight position also reduces visibility for on-coming traffic since the headlights are higher than normal. The additional colored beacon lights that are used on plows as warning devices also reflect off of the snow into the operator’s eyes. Although these lights are mounted behind the driver, they still reflect off the snow and obscure vision. Other problems that exist during plowing operations are the visibility through the windshield due to fogging over and the effectiveness of the wipers themselves.

A recent informal survey was conducted at the last maintenance workshop. Of the 50 to 100 respondents, not one operator felt that snowplow visibility was adequate. This is an alarming statistic since clearing of the roadway is the most significant safety improvement the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) can make for the traveling public.

In addition to the reduced vision caused by these problems, increased driver fatigue is experienced. Since plowing snow is such a difficult event, anything that contributes to additional fatigue should be minimized or eliminated.

This problem was the focus of a recently completed National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) study that made recommendations for improvements. ADOT’s previous study on Winter Storm Operations also made recommendations to improve plow operations. However, no recommendations to improve lighting configurations have been provided to eliminate the problems described.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to increase operator visibility and to reduce glare to on coming traffic during plowing operations.

The following tasks, at minimum, will be accomplished:

  1. Review recommendations of previous research, other state’s practices, and available equipment.
  2. Recommend the necessary equipment and procedures to improve driver visibility and to reduce glare to on-coming traffic. The recommendations should include costs.
  3. Purchase the equipment and attachments necessary to retrofit one of ADOT’s existing plows with the recommended equipment and demonstrate the visibility improvement through video documentation during inclement weather.
  4. Document improvements to worker safety as a result of the installed devices/modified practices. The evaluations should be a before and after study
  5. Prepare a final report documenting the research methodologies, findings, and recommendations and conclusions.
  6. Prepare an Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) Research Note for distribution.
  7. Prepare an executive presentation on the findings to the Research Council.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results of this research would be used to modify ADOT’s snowplow fleet.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

A prototype light support system has been developed in-house to “boom” lights beyond the plow in front of the plow. The proof of concept work indicated significant advantages to the lighting approach. The durability of the lighting system was not acceptable however. Accelerometers were placed on the plow during dry pavement operation to measure the actual accelerations experienced. A modification to the light fixture attachment will be made for testing in the fall of 04.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Joel Miller Globe District
Dean Murgiuc Equipment Services
Danny Russel Flagstaff Maintenance
Kent Link Flagstaff Maintenance
Carl Eyrich Flagstaff Equipment
NEW STAFF ATRC

 

 

Materials and Construction

Project 396, FY 1995

LTPP and Other Test Section Management and Evaluation.

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 07/01/92
Principal Investigator(s):

Larry Scofield, et al

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

N/A

Original Completion Date: N/A
Program Budget:

$143,373

Estimated Completion Date: 06/30/09
Expenditures to date:

$63,753

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$79,620

Advantage No.: R039611P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


60%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

This project has been re-scoped and represents a consolidation of what was previously SPR 388, 390, 391, 393, and 395. Instead of having multiple projects, the efforts have been consolidated into SPR 396, which previously was just for GPS testing and evaluation.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this project is to ensure the maintenance and evaluation of the ongoing LTPP test sections.

At a minimum, the following tasks will be accomplished:

1.      Maintain the signing and pavement markings on all test sections.

2.      Conduct filming of distress on test sections, digitize imagery, and conduct analysis of images.

3.      Conduct forensic investigations on analysis of test section performance.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This project provides for data collection, evaluation, and analysis to support the LTPP program and ADOT’s pavement preservation program.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

This is an on-going activity through out the life of each of the test sections. Evaluation reports on the SPS profiles, and the SPS-5 and SPS-6 experiments are underway by Nichols Consulting, Inc. Draft reports have been submitted for the SPS profiles and the SPS-6 experiment.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Not Assigned

 

 

 

Project 402, FY 1995

Development of Performance Related Specifications for Asphalt Pavements.

Research Agency:

Arizona State University

Program Date: 07/92
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Mat Witczak

Contract Date: Not Applicable
Contract Amount:

N/A

Original Completion Date: Not Applicable
Program Budget:

$1,019,220

Estimated Completion Date: 9/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$934,139

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$85,081

Advantage No.: R040213P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


90%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) is currently developing a new pavement structural design guide that will be available in draft form in 2000/2001. The new AASHTO pavement structural design guide will be a mechanistic based design procedure. This form of pavement design (i.e. mechanistic design) has not been used by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) previously. This type of design process is technically more challenging and requires a higher degree of knowledge on the pavement design engineer as well as a more sophisticated approach to materials testing and characterization.

At this same time, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is attempting to complete the Strategic Highway Research Program asphaltic concrete (AC) mixture design process with additional ongoing research. This research will develop a simple performance test and provide models and advanced materials characterization tests.

Both of these studies will significantly alter the methods by which AC structural design and mixture design will be performed. The principal investigator on both of the above referenced research projects is Dr. Matt Witczak a professor at Arizona State University (ASU). To prepare ADOT for implementation of the above referenced research, ADOT and ASU have developed a five year strategic pavement research effort. The first year of this effort was funded with SPR 402 "Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) Superpave Implementation".

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The overall objective of this continuation project is to implement a methodology for performance related specifications for asphalt pavements in ADOT. The short term objective is to leverage the ongoing research activities of AASHTO and the FHWA into Arizona design practice.

The minimum following tasks will be performed:

  1. Initiate and develop a fully coordinated and integrated pavement research program and unit consisting of ASU and ADOT personnel to focus on the enhancement of technology and economic aspects related to pavement performance.
  2. Integrate the results of the most recent national research work being conducted in the United States on mechanistic pavement design and performance modeling into ADOT practice.
  3. Develop an improved asphalt mixture design system that will be based upon the most recent advances formulated by the new Superpave design procedures.
  4. Develop an ADOT asphalt cement characterization database.
  5. Develop an ADOT AC stiffness characterization database.
  6. Develop an ADOT mixture permanent deformation characterization database.
  7. Develop an ADOT fracture characterization database.
  8. Develop an ADOT unbound materials permanent deformation database.
  9. Develop an ADOT unbound materials moduli characterization database.
  10. Implement the Integrated Climatic model using ADOT environmental conditions.
  11. Implement the simple performance AC mixture test in ADOT

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This is research is designed as a five year program intended to fast forward the implementation of the 2002 AASHTO Pavement Design Guide. Implementation of various technologies will occur as the research validates that the technologies are appropriate for Arizona use and implementation into practice.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is essentially complete. Awaiting delivery of the final report.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Don Green United Metro
Doug Forstie State Engineers Office
Paul Burge Materials Group
Julie Nodes Materials Group
NEW STAFF ATRC
Bob McGenis Koch Materials

 

 

 

Project 460, FY 1997

Evaluation of Cold In-Place Recycle Methods.

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 07/01/96
Principal Investigator(s):

Larry Scofield

Contract Date: N/A
Contract Amount:

N/A

Original Completion Date: 07/01/06
Program Budget:

$55,000

Estimated Completion Date: 07/01/06
Expenditures to date:

$18,944

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$36,056

Advantage No.: R0460009P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


95%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The national trend away from new construction to preservation of the highway system is requiring highway agencies to seek alternative approaches to pavement preservation. One option which has seen considerable increase in use is recycling. Although pavement recycling is reported to have been done as early as 1915, its principal use has been since the mid-1970s. Recycling consists of both hot and cold recycling which can both be done in place or off site.

Cold in-place recycling has seen ever-increasing use in recent times due to improvements in technology, longer performance records, and greater emphasis on quality control. Cold in-place recycling is generally referred to as full-depth or partial-depth recycling. Partial-depth recycling is more prevalent and generally consists of rehabilitating the top 2 to 4 inches of the pavement structure. Some agencies require the placement of an overlay or wearing surface on top of the cold recycled material while other agencies allow cold recycle as the final wearing surface.

Partial depth, cold in-place recycling is an attractive option for use in Arizona, particularly with the remote locations of many highways. Unfortunately, there is not a single, nationally recognized design procedure. Instead, many procedures have evolved based upon experience and varying design philosophies. Two major theories have been promoted for designing cold mix materials. The first is to consider the salvaged material as simply black aggregate with some hardened asphalt coating and to design an asphalt content to coat these particles. The second theory considers the asphalt present in the salvaged material as part of the future binder design. This approach evaluates the physical and chemical aspects of the salvaged binder and adds a rejuvenating agent to restore the reclaimed asphalt to its original condition as well as adding additional binder for coating of the aggregate. Recent efforts have indicated that perhaps the actual phenomenon is somewhere between these two theories.

Many different binders can be used in the cold mix process. Typically, binder contents range from 0.5% to 1.5% of emulsion for partial depth, cold in-place mixes. Medium setting and high-float emulsions and emulsified recycling agents are typically used. In recent times polymer modification of some of these binders has seen increased use. Different mix design procedures can result in the selection of different binder types as well as different binder contents. This aspect of the cold recycling process has led many states to develop their “own” design philosophies and procedures. These efforts are generally based on considerable local field performance data.

In addition to the more traditional methods of producing cold in-place material where the binder is incorporated directly into the salvaged material and then mixed together, foamed asphalt has seen a renewed interest and use. Foamed asphalt is a technique where the asphalt is “foamed” by first combining hot asphalt binder with water. The foamed binder is then mixed with the salvaged material by methods similar to those used in other cold recycling methods.

Although Arizona was one of the first states to use foamed asphalt techniques in the early 1960’s, it has seen little or no use since that time. With advances in foaming procedures and mix design techniques, this may be a very cost-effective strategy.

Although the Arizona Dept of Transportation (ADOT) has constructed several cold in-place recycled projects, only limited or no experience exists with some of the different binder types and construction techniques. Since cold in-place recycling potentially offers considerable economic advantages, additional research is necessary to establish the best techniques and binders for use in construction and to begin to establish the life cycle costs of these design strategies.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to evaluate the performance of test sections constructed using selected binder types and construction procedures. The test sections will be constructed to establish long term pavement performance.

At a minimum, the following tasks will be accomplished:

  1. Meet with the project Technical Advisory Committee to review the scope of work and work plan.
  2. Canvass selected states for the mix design procedures, binder types, construction specifications, and performance histories for partial-depth, cold in-place recycling. Document the available binder types and construction techniques for consideration of test section construction.
  3. Determine the geographic locations where the cold mix recycle may be a viable design strategy and determine the desired number of locations for test section construction.
  4. Determine which binders and construction techniques will be evaluated.
  5. Develop the experimental plan establishing the number of test sections, locations, and analysis procedures.
  6. Prepare the plans and specifications for test section construction, including all necessary testing and field evaluation. Identify upcoming candidate construction projects for inclusion of test sections. Currently, the US60 project (i.e., Goldfield Road to District Boundary) has been identified as a candidate project.
  7. Perform long-term pavement performance evaluation for ten years after construction.
  8. Prepare a final report and Research Note of the literature review, research methodology, findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
  9. Make an executive presentation to the Research Council at the conclusion of the Project.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

After three to five years of performance data, it is expected that the cost-effective design strategies and techniques will be incorporated into the pavement design process for strategy selection.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Eight test sections were constructed on SR87 north of Holbrook. Plans are underway to saw beam specimens from the roadway and test them in fatigue for materials characterization. All the test sections are performing similarly to date. A review of the historical information available for all of ADOT’s approximate 20 CIR projects was conducted by ARA to document their construction and to evaluate their performance. A draft final report has been submitted.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

NEW STAFF ATRC
Doug Forstie State Engineer’s Office

 

 

 

Project 471, FY 1998

Specific Applications of Shotcrete to Enhance Rock Mass Stability.

Research Agency:

Arizona State University

Program Date: 7/01/97
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Dennis Duffy

Contract Date: 10/22/97
Contract Amount:

$126,000

Original Completion Date: 7/30/00
Program Budget:

$126,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/03
Expenditures to date:

$91,000

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$35,000

Advantage No.: R047110P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


70%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Arizona is a mountainous state and many miles of the highway network pass through steep terrain, where rock slopes are adjacent to the highway. Rock falls of various dimensions occur and can cause damage to property and result in injury to people. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has the responsibility to reduce the risks caused by these rock falls.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to develop a non-invasive, low-cost rock slope stabilizing technique

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results of this research will provide Shotcrete materials and placement techniques that will enable contractor and maintenance personnel to non-invasively stabilize rock masses. Another product of the research will be a rock slope evaluation procedure to be used to determine where these materials/techniques will be used effectively. This information will be provided in easily understood material along with some training information.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Two interim reports were submitted and reviewed by the technical advisory committee, the first in July 1999 and the second in July 2001. Those two phases of the project are now completed. The second phase included a 2-year observation of stabilized rock masses for which no failures were observed. During the same observation period, 400 rock falls were recorded from adjacent non-stabilized rock, an affirmation of selective stabilization.

A final phase of this project was requested, and tentatively approved, to resolve the issue of performance in severe freeze-thaw areas - to be performed on US60 MP 236. This final phase, for a budget of $36,500, will also investigate the use of site mixed concrete and fluid enhancing techniques.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Aryan Lirange Federal Highway Administration
Ron Blackstone Materials Group
Terry Brennen Tonto National Forest
Roger Davis Superior Maintenance
Tom Foster Prescott
Bruce Kay Consultant
John Lawson Materials Group

 

 

 

Project 491, FY 2000

Evaluate the Cost Benefit of Continued Pavement Preservation Design Strategies Versus Re-Construction.

Research Agency:

ERES Consultants

Program Date: 07/01/99
Principal Investigator(s):

Kurt Smith

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

$112,260

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$112,260

Estimated Completion Date: 10/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$27,730

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$84,530

Advantage No.: R049112P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


97%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The continued preservation of the Arizona Department of Transportation’s (ADOT) pavements becomes an ever-increasing issue as non-renewable resources such as mineral aggregate become more and more difficult to obtain. Historically, ADOT’s design philosophies have resulted in strategies that consist primarily of mill and fill and overlay. These pavement strategies are designed for approximately a ten-year life, at which time, another similar treatment would be performed.

Proper design philosophies evaluate life cycle costs to select the best available design option. However, the life cycle cost consists of both the construction cost and the user cost incurred by the public through delay, etc. While construction costs are easily defined, user costs are very difficult to quantify and often times may actually exceed the actual cost of the facility being constructed. Since the user costs are not directly borne by the agency, it becomes somewhat of a philosophical discussion as to what user costs should be considered.

In recent times, mineral aggregate sources have become increasingly more difficult to obtain in Arizona. However, our current design philosophies and economics require needing new materials approximately every ten years.

There is a need to consider reconstruction of significant roadways so that they can obtain design lives, perhaps as many as thirty to forty years before rehabilitation or reconstruction.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to evaluate the best pavement design strategies available, considering the recently completed research project on pavement performance and the recently developed life cycle cost analysis model prepared by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

The minimum following tasks will be performed:

  1. Review the results of ADOT Research Project SPR 404 and the FHWA Demonstration Project 115.
  2. Conduct a literature search.
  3. Review the availability of material sources for future construction in Arizona.
  4. Analyze the typical construction costs associated with each of the designs studied by SPR 404 project and for typical ADOT new or reconstruction projects
  5. Define the descriptive statistics for both performance life and construction costs for each of the evaluated design strategies. These results will be used as input into the FHWA Life Cycle Cost Model.
  6. Evaluate the best practices for considering when to consider user costs and how best to determine and apply them.
  7. Prepare recommendations as to the most cost-effective design strategies for Arizona and the best model for selecting alternatives for use in Arizona.
  8. Prepare a final report documenting the efforts of the study and the conclusions and recommendations.
  9. Prepare a Research Note in accordance with Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) procedures.
  10. Conduct an executive presentation to the Research Council.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results from this study would be used by the pavement design group for selecting cost-effective design strategies.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is essentially complete. A draft final report has been submitted and is awaiting review by the TAC.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Jeffrey Swan Consultant
George Way Retired
Doug Forstie State Engineer’s Office
Jim Delton Materials Group
John Louis Roadway Design Group
NEW STAFF ATRC

 

 

 

Project 498, FY 2000

Warranty Specifications.

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 07/01/99
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$0

Estimated Completion Date: 6/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? NO
Available Amount

$0

Advantage No.: R049812P
Percent complete
through 06/30/03


65%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The use of warranty specifications has long been a consideration of the innovative contracting techniques. This type of specification was first used in Arizona for landscape items. However, there has been little use of this application in the Arizona Dept of Transportation’s (ADOT) highway construction other than for landscaping. Historically, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) would not allow warranties on Federal Aid Construction. There is also a continued belief that if you develop proper specifications, use quality materials and inspection techniques, there should not be a need for warranties.

However, there appears to be a growing need for maintenance activities on newly constructed roadway projects. This is a result of some aspect of the construction feature not performing as intended. This could be the result of improper design or improper construction. In either event, it requires additional, unplanned expenditure of resources.

The use of warranty specifications reduces the resources necessary to provide the initial inspection as well as the maintenance resources necessary to make repairs soon after construction. Recent discussions regarding contractor placed chip seals suggests that they may not be performing as expected. The use of warranties may improve their performance for example.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to evaluate the institutional, political, and legal issues surrounding the implementation of warranty periods for construction projects.

The minimum following tasks will be accomplished:

  1. Conduct a literature search on the use and issues surrounding warranty periods and specifications.
  2. Review the institutional issues relevant to implementing warranty specifications on ADOT construction. Prepare a working paper describing these issues.
  3. Review the political issues relevant to implementing warranty specifications on ADOT construction. Prepare a working paper describing these issues.
  4. Review the legal issues relevant to implementing warranty specifications on ADOT construction. Prepare a working paper describing these issues.
  5. Develop an implementation plan for establishing warranty periods and specifications on ADOT construction projects. The plan will include solutions to the roadblocks and impediments to the use of warranty periods and specifications.
  6. Prepare a final report documenting the efforts of the study and the conclusions and recommendations.
  7. Prepare a Research Note in accordance with Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) procedures.
  8. Conduct an executive presentation to the Research Council.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The product of this research will be an implementation plan that provides the information and procedures necessary for including warranties in Arizona highway construction projects.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Two warranty projects have been developed. The first, which used a two-year warranty, has been successfully completed. The second warranty project was to be constructed during the fall of 02 and spring of 03. The construction project was terminated due to the condition of the existing pavement. The specifications, test procedures, and performance requirements have been developed for ADOT implementation. This work is being conducted in-house.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Joe Acosta Attorney Generals Office
Doug Forstie State Engineers Office
NEW STAFF ATRC

 

 

 

Project 518, FY 2001

Reducing the Development Cycle Time for Construction Process.

Research Agency:

Dye Management Group

Program Date: 07/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

David Rose

Contract Date: 1/16/02
Contract Amount:

$50,000

Original Completion Date: 12/16/02
Program Budget:

$85,000

Estimated Completion Date: 10/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$50,451

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount

$34,549

Advantage No.: R051813P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


95%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The planning and development of a single construction project involves many tasks and different agencies as well as a significant number of internal Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) organizations and individuals. This requires that all projects be scoped and planned well in advance so that right-of-way (R/W) and environmental clearance can be obtained and that sufficient time is available to test and design the facilities.

However, it often times takes as long as six to eight years from when the need for a particular project is first identified to when actual construction is underway. During this time, the infrastructure asset can deteriorate significantly and/or the problem being solved by the new project can become critical. There is a need to reduce the cycle time from when the need for a project is first identified until it is under construction. This will significantly improve our ability to respond to ever changing conditions and provide higher levels of service to our customers.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this project is to identify the changes necessary to reduce cycle time in getting construction projects underway and to develop an implementation plan to accomplish these changes.

The minimum following tasks will be performed:

  1. Identify the steps and processes used by ADOT to develop construction projects.
  2. Benchmark typical process times for each step/process.
  3. Interview ADOT personnel regarding these process/steps and identify needed improvements and barriers.
  4. Canvass selected transportation agencies to assess their cycle time experiences.
  5. Prepare an interim report that documents the findings of tasks one through four. The interim report will also recommend the needed areas of improvement and the recommended changes to the current process.
  6. Prepare detailed implementation plans to accomplish the recommended process changes.
  7. Prepare a final report documenting the efforts of the study and the conclusions and recommendations.
  8. Prepare a Research Note in accordance with Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) procedures.
  9. Conduct an executive presentation to the Research Council.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

No implementation is currently expected.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is essentially complete. A draft final report is pending.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Arnold Burnham TPD Mary Viparina Statewide Projects
Steve Jimenez Statewide Projects NEW STAFF ATRC
Ginger Murdough Partnering Section
Bryan Kinney Pre-Design Section

 

 

 

Project 524, FY 2001

Development of Mix Design Procedures and End Product Specifications for Gap-Graded Asphalt-Rubber Asphalt Concrete.

Research Agency:

MACTEC

Program Date: 07/01/00
Principal Investigator(s):

Annie Stonex

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

$103,110

Original Completion Date: N/A
Program Budget:

$175,000

Estimated Completion Date: 10/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$142,698

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$32,302

Advantage No.: R052413P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


95%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Traditionally, mix designs for gap-graded asphalt-rubber asphalt concrete (AR-AC) have been performed by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) staff using experience and judgment. Test criteria and specifications have not evolved to the point that mix design activities can be out-sourced. This results in significant reliance on personal judgment and experience. This also prevents standardization and proper performance evaluation.

ADOT currently uses recipe or method type specifications for AR-AC construction. The method specifications have evolved with time and represent the collective experience and knowledge of the agency. However, this experience is difficult to transfer and improve.

In the early 1990’s, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) formed a pooled fund study to develop mix design procedures and specifications for asphalt-rubber asphalt concrete mixtures. Unfortunately, prior to completion, this study was terminated without producing these products. There is a need to standardize mix design procedures for AR-AC. This will allow outsourcing of the mix designs, standardization of the procedures, more contractor responsibility in achieving a quality product, and better performance measurements.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to develop mix design procedures for designing and specifying AR-AC mixtures in construction.

The minimum following tasks will be performed:

  1. Review ADOT's Current AR-AC Mix Design Procedures and Recommend Improvements
  2. Develop Procedures for Using the SHRP Gyratory Compaction/Design Method for AR-AC Mix Designs
  3. Compare Results of a Minimum of Three Mixes (Representative of different aggregate sources) Using Each of the Two Design Methods for each of the binder types (i.e. Type 1 and Type 2).
  4. Conduct a Workshop to Present the Findings of the Above Comparison to Industry, Accredited ADOT labs and ADOT for Comment and Discussion
  5. Based on the Results of the Testing and the Comments from the Workshop, ADOT will Select the Preferred Mix Design Procedure
  6. Using the Selected Mix Design Method, Conduct Round Robin Testing with a Minimum of Three ADOT Accredited Labs and the Central Materials Laboratory
  7. Conduct a Workshop to Present the Findings of the Above Comparison to Industry, Accredited ADOT labs and ADOT for Comment and Discussion
  8. Prepare a recommended Arizona Test Method for Conducting AR-AC Mix Design. The procedures should be prepared in accordance with the standard test method format used by ADOT.
  9. Prepare a Final Report documenting the effort and summarizing the results, conclusions, and findings

Prepare a Research Note

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The project has revised the Arizona 816 specifications.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Revised specifications have been prepared. Round robin testing with contractor and consultant laboratories is underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Larry Ilg Materials Group
George Way Retired
Julie Nodes Materials Section
Bob McGenis Koch Materials
NEW STAFF ATRC

 

 

 

Project 574, FY 2004

Use of NDT Equipment for Construction Quality Control Of Hot Mix Asphalt Pavements

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 07/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: N/A
Program Budget:

$135,000

Estimated Completion Date: N/A
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$135,000

Advantage No.: R057416P
Percent complete
through 06/30/03


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Larry Scofield

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The new AASTHO 2002 Pavement Design Guide will use a mechanistic-empirical design procedure. This is a completely new form of pavement design compared to previous AASHTO design procedures. Use of this type of approach requires knowledge regarding the modulus, thickness, and poisons ratio of each layer. Unfortunately, the current construction specifications are not based on these engineering properties. To successfully implement any mechanistic pavement design procedure and to move towards performance-related specifications, it is essential to develop tools that can measure the modulus of each layer. There is a need evaluate tools that measure modulus and can be combined with results from laboratory and field tests and quality control during construction. To attain a goal of performance related specifications it will be necessary to unify design methodologies to the construction quality control. Currently there is seismic based equipment that can be readily used in the laboratory for determining the modulus during the mix design stage and then used in the field to measure the as-constructed pavement modulus. These tests can be performed in two to three minutes and are completely non-destructive. They do not requiring coring of the materials nor any special fabrication in the lab beyond what is normally done during the design procedure.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The research objective is to develop a pilot program similar to what the Texas DOT is doing for evaluating the use of seismic equipment for construction quality control of hot mix asphalt concrete pavements.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

If successful, implementation would require purchasing equipment

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is not yet underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Materials Group, Industry, TXDOT Personnel

 

 

 

Project 575, FY 2004

Concrete Aggregate Durability Study

Research Agency:

Applied Pavement
Technology

Program Date: 07/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

David Peshkin

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: 10/30/05
Program Budget:

$25,000

Estimated Completion Date: 10/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$25,000

Advantage No.: R057516P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Larry Scofield

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The durability of concrete aggregate has long been a problem in the transportation community. In particular, Alkali-Silica Reactivity (ASR) and Sulfate attack have been the two predominant problems associated with long-term concrete durability. Although considered an issue in surrounding states, this has not been considered a serious problem for structures or bridges in Arizona. Unfortunately, these problems typically take many years to manifest themselves and once detected, corrective action is often times difficult to undertake. So prevention is the best solution.

ASR and sulfate attack, although different distress mechanisms, occur as a result of an interaction between the environment and the concrete. Both distresses cause expansion within the hardened concrete resulting in cracking of the concrete.

A recent study on a major airfield in Arizona determined that significant alkali-silica reaction had occurred in the 14-year old concrete pavement. This suggests that this may be more of a concern than previously believed. This, coupled with the fact that it is an issue in surrounding states with similar geological sources, suggests that this needs further research.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research would be to review the available knowledge regarding aggregate problems in Arizona and the surrounding states. The minimum following tasks would be performed:

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The product of this effort would be a report detailing the available information on aggregate performance in Arizona and surrounding states.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project was just awarded.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Materials Group, Industry, Consultants

 

 

 

Project 577, FY 2004 Pavement Noise Study

Research Agency: Program Date: 07/01/03
Principal Investigator(s): Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: 10/30/05
Program Budget:

$99,000 (FY2005)
($657,000 total)

Estimated Completion Date: 10/30/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$0

Advantage No.: R057717P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Historically, noise mitigation measures used in the U.S. transportation industry have included use of barriers, walls, and separation (e.g., distance). These methods have been the only acceptable solutions for federally funded projects. Quiet pavements can also be used to mitigate noise but are not currently permitted because the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) does not view them as a permanent solution.

In Arizona, like other states, berms and walls are the primary noise mitigation measures in the urban corridors. In April 2003, ADOT received approval from FHWA to allow the use of pavement surface type as a noise mitigation strategy. This approval allowed the use of Asphalt Rubber Friction Course (ARFC) overlays as a noise mitigation strategy when used on existing and newly constructed concrete pavements. Where this surfacing is used, ADOT receives a four-decibel reduction for the design of walls and berms. This credit equates to a six to eight foot reduction in wall or barrier height. Perhaps a more meaningful analogy is that if just a three-decibel reduction were achieved through the use of a quiet pavement, it would have a noise impact of about half of the actual traffic volume.

The FHWA approval was granted with the condition that Arizona be a pilot program, with specific research objectives and requirements. The required research is intended to validate the efficacy of using ARFC as a noise mitigation strategy. Since the FHWA was concerned that a pavement solution is not a permanent solution, they requested a pilot program to study the long-term performance of the ARFC overlay. ADOT committed to a long-range study for up to 10 years, the estimated minimum life cycle of the ARFC pavement.

The ADOT Intermodal Transportation Division (ITD) is currently conducting studies of Type 2 (wayside noise measurement) sites. The ITD studies will complement this research which focuses on Type 1 (source noise) and Type 3 (research grade) sites.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of the research is to measure and compare noise generated from different pavement types over time. The effects of pavement design and pavement age will be monitored as they affect noise generation from vehicle traffic.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results of the research will be used in the design of future road construction projects.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

A Joint Project Agreement (JPA) with the Arizona State University (ASU) Materials Group and a JPA with the ASU Environmental Group are complete. A JPA with the Federal Highway Administration Volpe Center is also complete.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

A TAC is being developed.

 

 

 

 

Project 590, FY 2005

Performance Related Pay Factors for Asphalt Concrete

Research Agency:

Arizona State University

Program Date: 07/01/04
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Matt Witczak

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount: Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$50,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount

$50,000

Advantage No.: R059017P
Percent complete
through 06/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

NEW STAFF

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Currently, ADOT accepts asphalt concrete production based on ten different quality factors. These include: sand equivalent, fractured coarse aggregate particles, uncompacted void content (special mix), material spread, gradation, asphalt cement content, effective voids, stability, compaction, and smoothness.

Of these ten, four are used to determine the mixture-properties and compaction pay factor. They are gradation, asphalt cement content, effective voids, and compaction. The mixture property and compaction pay factor is used to pay the contractor for each ton of asphalt produced on the project. The purpose of the mixture pay factor is to determine payment, based upon on the percent of product within a specified tolerance. This allows payment to be based upon mixture quality. That is, the higher the quality the higher resulting payment.

The mixture property and compaction pay factors were largely developed on experience and judgment and on production equipment capability. The linkage between these pay factors and pavement performance and pavement design is currently not known.

It would be very beneficial to have pay factors that are based upon actual pavement performance and design procedures. The recently completed NCHRP 2002 Pavement Analysis tool provides the capability to evaluate the effect of these mixture characteristics on pavement design and performance. Therefore, rational pay factors could be determined based upon actual design conditions and attendant pavement performance.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objective of this research is to develop new pay factors for inclusion into ADOT’s specifications based upon analysis conducted using the NCHRP 2002 Pavement Analysis Tool. Sensitivity analysis will be conducted for each of the relevant mixture and compaction properties to determine their effect on pavement performance.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results of this research should be used to replace the pay factors shown in section 416 of the standard specifications.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project has not begun.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Materials Group,

 

 

Planning and Administration

Project 528, FY 2001

Cost of Damage Done to Arizona Highways by Overweight Vehicles

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation Research Center

Program Date: 07/01/00
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount: Original Completion Date: 06/30/02
Program Budget:

$10,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$500

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$9,500

Advantage No.: R052813P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


5%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has primary responsibility for enforcing laws regulating size and weight of commercial and non-commercial vehicles on the state’s highways. ADOT’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) coordinates enforcement activities. It is contended that overweight vehicles are the primary cause of highways within this state failing to meet their expected or designed life spans. Overweight vehicle axles cause a damage factor to the fourth power to pavement and the infrastructure. This equates to millions of dollars in damage that must be funded from highway user taxes and other sources. These expenditures for avoidable maintenance reduce the capability and funding to build new highways and to maintain existing roads in a comprehensive manner. We need to identify and quantify that cost figure.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Identify the various methods of quantifying pavement damage due to overweight vehicles.
  2. Identify which one most represents conditions or activity in this state.
  3. Identify remedial and enforcement options for dealing with overweight vehicles.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The proposed research would promote effective enforcement of size and weight laws on Arizona highways. It would also give evidence of overspending or under spending for this activity. This would give valuable information to support efforts in weight enforcement, make planning for future highways more efficient, and provide budgetary directions or priorities for MVD.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is being rebid.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Steve Abney Motor Vehicle Division
Ed Stillings Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center
Mark Catchpole Transportation Planning Division
Jim Delton Materials

 

 

 

Project 530, FY 2001

Critical Factors in the Development of Transit Systems in Rural Arizona.

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 07/01/00
Principal Investigator(s):

David Moise &
Kip Kelly

Contract Date: 12/03/01
Contract Amount:

$8,500

Original Completion Date: 06/30/02
Program Budget:

$10,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$405

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$9,595

Advantage No.: R052613P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


5%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Public transportation is rarely available in rural regions of Arizona. This puts those unable to drive themselves at a serious disadvantage when it comes to mobility.

Government entities in rural regions may lack information on how to start and operate a public transit system appropriate for their area. Getting this information could be the critical input needed to initiate more rural transit options in Arizona.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

Identify, prioritize and discuss the most critical factors for the implementation of new general public transit systems in rural Arizona. Examples of factors could include local leadership, state and federal funding, transit dependency characteristics of local population, urban form and trip attractions.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will result in information that could be used to guide a more effective rural transit program in Arizona. The Transportation Planning Division will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center
Sharon Gordon Federal Highway Administration
Bill Sapper Transportation Planning Division
Scott Friedson Transportation Planning Division
Sam Chavez Transportation Planning Division
Don Sneed Transportation Planning Division

 

 

 

Project 534, FY 2002

Digital Signatures

Research Agency:

ADOT Information
Technology Group

Program Date: 10/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

Tami Price

Contract Date: None
Contract Amount:

None

Original Completion Date: 12/31/02
Program Budget:

$85,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$47,146

Is project on schedule? No
Available

$37,854

Advantage No.: R053414P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


60%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) wishes to do more electronic transactions (electronic bidding, procurement, other Motor Vehicle Division transactions, etc.). Many of these transactions require a signature in order to prove a particular person signed a document. Without an electronic means to prove that a particular person or business approved the transaction, these electronic transactions are not possible. This adversely affects the Arizona Department of Transportation by precluding these transactions from being done electronically.

Electronic commerce relies on secure communication between two or more trusting parties. Digital signatures are a necessary component for electronically completing certain transactions. With the volume of electronic commerce and business-to-business transactions skyrocketing, the acceptance of digital signatures is more a question of “when” rather than “if.”

But what exactly will a digital signature look like? While most people might imagine scribbling with little electronic pens on an interactive notepad, digital signatures will, for the foreseeable future, remain far more arcane – and not entirely intuitive. For now, a signature is likely to be a simple bit of encryption embedded in one’s own personal computer that tells other computers that a request for a commercial transaction over the Internet is coming from one’s computer.

Digital signatures ensure a higher level of security and privacy for electronic messages or transactions. Using encryption algorithms, the sender encodes and then "signs" his message, and the receiver can only decode and read it with a corresponding secret code, or "key." The signature lets the receiver know the message hasn't been tampered with or forged. Many observers feel that adoption of such schemes, coupled with strong encryption, is necessary for mass use of the Internet for electronic commerce.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Prepare a comprehensive study of all the areas within ADOT that digital signatures would help it do business electronically.
  2. Propose a technical architecture along with plans for a pilot implementation

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The estimated implementation cost for a full deployment will be determined by the research project. The Information Technology Group will be the ultimate process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project has been rebid.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Tami Price  
Jamie Rybarczyk  
Rich Nacinovich  
Joe Throckmorton  
Vicki Tsutsumida   Federal Highway Administration:
John Semmens   Arizona Transportation Research Center:

 

 

 

Project 535, FY 2002

Commercial Vehicle Information Systems Network (CVISN) Safety Information Exchange Needs Assessment for the Nogales Port-of-Entry.

Research Agency:

Pending (phase 2)

Program Date: 10/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending (phase 2)

Contract Date: 07/26/02
Contract Amount:

$145,000 (phase 1)

Original Completion Date: 5/31/03
Program Budget:

$385,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$145,000

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$240,000

Advantage No.: R053514P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04

100% (phase 1)
0% (phase 2)

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Various federal and state motor carrier safety information systems are now available, but are not installed nor being used at the Nogales Cargo Port. This hampers the ability for all commercial vehicle safety inspectors to capture, communicate and collect data pertinent to vehicles and drivers they are examining. The inability of truck inspectors to have immediate access to required records may lead to potential accidents or allow problem drivers to operate vehicles.

The state and federal governments are developing a multi-million dollar inspection facility at Nogales. The lack of timely vehicle and driver information will have an impact on the facility operating at full potential.

A Commercial Vehicle Information Systems Network (CVISN) will provide Arizona and federal truck inspectors with an excellent means to use available technology to obtain and exchange driver and vehicle records, both with Mexican and US authorities, especially as they relate to Motor Carrier Safety and crash history. A Commercial Vehicle Information Systems Network is another smart technology enhancement that will make easier law enforcement's job of making highways safer for the motoring public and preserving the transportation infrastructure.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the specific needs in terms of a safety information exchange system under the umbrella of a Commercial Vehicle Information Systems Network and intelligent transportation systems related technologies.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research outcome will help identify how the Arizona Department of Transportation, along with the Department of Public Safety and U.S. Department of Transportation, can enhance their collective motor carrier safety objectives. These successful accomplishments will lead to safer vehicles, safer drivers and an overall safer highway transportation environment, with an attendant drop in highway crashes and a decrease in resultant injuries and fatalities. The Motor Vehicle Division of the Arizona Department of Transportation will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

George N. Bays Motor Vehicle Division:
Manny Agah and Marian Thompson Traffic Operations Center:
Jennifer Brown and Ed Stillings Federal Highway Administration:
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center:

 

 

 

Project 544, FY 2002

What is the Best Mix of Service Delivery Strategies that Can Be Employed to Reduce Customer Time in Motor Vehicle Division Field Offices?

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/00
Principal Investigator(s):

Christopher Storey

Contract Date: 08/30/02
Contract Amount:

$12,000

Original Completion Date: 7/31/02
Program Budget:

$12,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$12,000

Advantage No.: R054414P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


5%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Registering a vehicle and obtaining a driver’s license are among the major points of contact between the public and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). We want to be “customer friendly” and make these types of transactions as simple as possible. At the same time, ADOT must ensure that drivers are qualified and fees are paid.

To minimize cost and maximize customer satisfaction, transactions between customers and ADOT should be conducted as efficiently as possible. Some of these transactions can be conducted over the phone, by mail, or on the internet. Other transactions (new driver’s licenses, for example) require that the customer come to a Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) field office to take a vision or on-the-road test. There are an array of options and strategies for conducting these various transactions.

The question is, which set of options or strategies would be optimal for meeting the needs of ADOT and its customers?

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.   Compile a comprehensive list of transaction methods that might be used by the Motor Vehicle Division.

2.   Describe the advantages and disadvantages of each method.

3.   Where feasible, estimate a cost/benefit profile for each method.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will result in information that could be used to guide a more effective Motor Vehicle Division customer service program in Arizona. MVD will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is being rebid.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Charlene Knapp Motor Vehicle Division
Terry Trost Office of Strategic Planning and Budget
Sharon Gordon Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

Project 546, FY 2002

What Is the Effect of Driver Education Programs on Traffic Crash and Violation Rates?

Research Agency:

Michael Sun Consulting

Program Date: 10/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

Stephen Michael

Contract Date: 05/14/02
Contract Amount:

$15,000

Original Completion Date: 3/31/03
Program Budget:

$23,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$7,993

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$15,007

Advantage No.: R054614P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


5%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Driver education is widely used as a preventive and remedial measure aimed at improving roadway safety. A variety of programs are offered in Arizona and other states by government and private entities. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council (GTSAC) is interested in examining the effectiveness of these programs and whether Arizona ought to invest more funds and efforts in driver education programs and, if so, which programs offer the best return on investment.

What is needed is a comprehensive survey of the results of these driver education programs in terms of before-and-after traffic crash and traffic violation rates (especially “repeat offenders”) for areas that use these various driver education programs vs. areas that do not. This survey should include programs within Arizona, as well as programs in other states. This would give state and local governments in Arizona a sound foundation for investing funds in ways that would efficiently improve roadway safety.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.  Estimate the impact of driver education programs on traffic crash and violation rates.

2.  Estimate a cost/benefit profile for these programs where feasible.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will result in information that could be used to guide a more effective defensive driver education program. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is nearing completion.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

John Carlson Motor Vehicle Division
Richard Fimbres Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council
Sarath Joshua Maricopa Association of Governments
Bob Hall ADOT Health & Safety
Jennifer Brown Federal Highway Administration
Sharon Gordon Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager:

 

 

 

Project 547, FY 2002

Arizona Statewide Safety Project Analysis Model

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

Jason Carey

Contract Date: 08/30/02
Contract Amount:

$10,500

Original Completion Date: 7/31/03
Program Budget:

$12,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$709

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$11,291

Advantage No.: R054714P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


20%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

In June 2001, the Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) completed a research project in which a model was developed for evaluating prospective safety projects on local government streets and roadways. This model enables the user to identify high crash locations based on total crashes, fatalities, and aggregate cost of crashes. Further, the model then permits the user to compare benefit/cost ratios for prospective safety improvements. The result is a tool that assists local governments in selecting the most cost-effective means for remedying the worst crash locations.

This proposed project would adapt the previously developed model to include State Highways in the database. This would enable a more comprehensive safety analysis of all roadways in Arizona. Users of the model would be able to identify and propose remedies for the worst crash sites regardless of the jurisdiction controlling the sites. Safety project investments could be optimized across jurisdictional boundaries and drivers in Arizona would enjoy the maximum pay-off in terms of reduced crash costs per dollar of investment no matter where they travel in the state.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.      The existing database model will be enhanced to accommodate a statewide, multi-jurisdictional perspective.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will result in a report and model that can be used by state and local governments to more effectively evaluate potential safety projects. The process owner would be the Transportation Planning Division, ADOT.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project has been on hold pending input from SPR 550.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Dale Buskirk Transportation Planning Division
Richard Fimbres Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council
Sarath Joshua Maricopa Association of Governments
Bob Hall ADOT Health & Safety
George Wendt ADOT Risk Management
Jennifer Brown Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager:

 

 

 

Project 550, FY 2002

The Impact of Automated Traffic Law Enforcement on Crash Rates

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

Simon Washington

Contract Date: 10/21/02
Contract Amount:

$12,000

Original Completion Date: 12/31/03
Program Budget:

$12,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$3,000

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$9,000

Advantage No.: R055014P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


25%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Red light cameras and photo-radar are widely used automated traffic law enforcement devices. Would expanding their use even further be a cost-effective way to increase roadway safety? Or are there other more simple and less costly ways of reducing crashes? For example, it has been suggested that increasing the yellow-phase on traffic signals would be an effective way to reduce red-light crashes.

What is needed is a comprehensive survey of results as measured by before-and-after traffic crash rates for areas that use these devices vs. areas that do not. One or more other simple measures for decreasing crash rates will be examined for comparative purposes. Such research would give state and local governments a sound foundation for investing funds in ways that would efficiently improve roadway safety.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.  Estimate the impact of red-light cameras and photo-radar on traffic crash rates.

2.  Compare these estimates with one or more simpler alternative measures.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will result in information that could be used to assess the effectiveness of automated enforcement options. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is delayed due to sabbatical of principal investigator.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Richard Fimbres Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council
Steve Bacs National Motorist Association
George Wendt ADOT Risk Management
Sarath Joshua Maricopa Association of Governments
Jennifer Brown Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

Project 551, FY 2002

Actual Speeds on the Roads Compared to the Posted Limits

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

Sherry Skszek

Contract Date: 10/21/02
Contract Amount:

$14,250

Original Completion Date: 12/31/03
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$7,681

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$7,319

Advantage No.: R055114P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


25%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

A substantial majority of vehicles exceed the posted speed limits. The disparity between posted limits and actual speeds increases the risk of crashes. Should there be stricter enforcement of posted limits? Or should the speed limits be raised to reflect the actual driving speeds?

What are the safety implications of stricter enforcement vs. adjusting the posted limits where there are discrepancies from 85th percentile speeds?

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.      Explore the problem of speed discrepancies and enumerate some options for remedy.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will result in information that could be used to assess the options for reducing the discrepancies between posted limits and vehicle speeds. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is nearing completion.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Richard Fimbres Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council
Steve Bacs National Motorist Association
George Wendt Arizona Department of Transportation Risk Management
Reed Henry Arizona Department of Transportation Traffic Safety
Sarath Joshua Maricopa Association of Governments
Jennifer Brown Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

Project 553, FY 2002

Driver License Manual Best Practices

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

Tricia Tool

Contract Date: 10/21/02
Contract Amount:

$12,000

Original Completion Date: 12/31/03
Program Budget:

$12,000

Estimated Completion Date: 7/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$1,000

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$11,000

Advantage No.: R055314P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


10%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Arizona Driver License Manual is the state’s main tool for instructing drivers in the rules of the road. The Manual represents one of the Department’s greatest opportunities/responsibilities for motoring public safety education. A good manual has the potential to make better drivers. Since the driver is the most significant factor in roadway safety, it is incumbent upon states to make their driver manuals as good as they can be.

Arizona’s driver license manual is reviewed and updated annually by the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), but this mainly addresses legislative and business process changes. A benchmarking effort that is both thorough and comprehensive to validate or enhance the content, formatting and delivery method of the information contained in the manual is needed.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.  Determine the best practices in driver manual publication and dissemination.

2.  Recommend steps necessary for Arizona to adopt the best practices.

3.  Document the safety implications of having a good driver manual.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will help determine if improvements to the Arizona Driver’s Manual should be made. The Motor Vehicle Division will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project has been rebid.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

John Guild Motor Vehicle Division
John Carlson Motor Vehicle Division
Cydney DeModica Motor Vehicle Division
Sharon Gordon Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

 

Project 559, FY 2003

Comprehensive Automated Driver’s License Testing System: The Visual Acuity Test

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

ERSA

Contract Date: 09/11/03
Contract Amount:

$11,824

Original Completion Date: 12/31/05
Program Budget:

$100,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$4,138

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$95,862

Advantage No.: R055915P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


20%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

With the advent of an aging population in Arizona, the need for a Comprehensive Automated Vision Testing program is increasing. The current process within the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) is lacking in identifying vision deficient drivers. The increased traffic volumes present multiple challenges to all Drivers, but especially those with a vision deficiency. The lack of a Glare Recovery component, a Depth Perception Component and a good Peripheral Vision Component, leaves many Arizona drivers unprepared for the challenges of driving. Vision is 80% of the driving task, it is imperative that Arizona investigate new technology in this Area. With the expanded time frames between required re-testing, compounds the need for a better Screening process. Sign recognition, traffic signal identification, increasing traffic volumes and Traffic congestion all play an important part in the driving process. A vision deficient driver may be operating under the assumption that they are OK, because they have an Arizona Drivers License.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.   Identify cutting edge technology in the area.

2.   Propose improved / new technology for testing.

3.   Test and evaluate new technology.

4.   Prepare and publish report of evaluation.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will conduct the research in two phases: (1) a pre-installation review of options and (2) a post-installation test of the chosen option. MVD will carry out the ultimate implementation if the recommendation of the research calls for it.

The estimated implementation cost for a full deployment will be determined by the research project. MVD will be the ultimate process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is nearing completion.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Richard Schweinsburg Motor Vehicle Division
Kathy Medoff Motor Vehicle Division
Robert Hall Motor Vehicle Division
George Wendt Risk Management
Sharon Gordon Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

Project 563, FY 2003

Port Runners – Impact and Solutions

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Julie Ernzen

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

$15,000

Original Completion Date: 12/31/04
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$7,500

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$7,500

Advantage No.: R056315P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


35%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Determine the extent and impact of commercial vehicles that bypass or circumvent the ports of entry (port runners) in order to avoid purchasing the appropriate permits or being cited for non-compliance with weight and/or registration requirements on roadways and revenues. It is widely believed that port runners are often illegal, carrying cargo that exceeds their limits, or drive in excess of the limits set by statute. This affects Arizona highways due to the increased damage incurred by overweight vehicles, decreases the safety of the motoring public due to potentially unsafe vehicles or drivers’ reduced capacity. Without clear knowledge of the extent of this problem, we cannot properly staff the facilities to impact this activity, nor divert resources to the locations and times most prevalent for these violators.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Determine the extent of the activity and develop a formula to determine impact on roadway, lost revenues, and if possible safety.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) will contract with a consultant to conduct the research. Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) management will determine whether to advocate any changes in existing law. If legislation is needed, ADOT will work with the governor and legislature to draft appropriate new laws.

The research will result in information that could help promote a more effective port monitoring of trucking in Arizona. With this information, more effective investment of public funds in highway transportation will be possible. ADOT’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) will be the process owner. ADOT management will decide whether to implement any operational changes.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is nearing completion.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Michael Veucasovic Motor Vehicle Division
Sharon Gordon Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

Project 564, FY 2003

Modeling the Impact of Maintenance Funding on Level-of-Service Measurements

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Jason Foster

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

$15,000

Original Completion Date: 12/31/04
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$15,000

Advantage No.: R056415P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The Arizona Department of Transportation’s (ADOT’s) approach to managing its highway maintenance program is based on developing the methodology and establishing maintenance processes, tools, and systems to achieve predefined Levels-of-Service (LOS) that are derived from customer input. This concept shifts emphasis from the traditional work program outputs to using maintenance programs to accomplish the desired LOS. It introduces accountability to the budgeting and allocation of maintenance funds by trying to tie dollars directly to LOS, as expressed by the using public. However, the program lacks the important ability to accurately predict the change in level-of-service measurements of features or feature groups when there is a change in the statewide maintenance budget or in the amount spent on a feature or feature group. Also, these LOS ratings or measurements are required to be reported to the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC) each year. For fiscal year (FY) 2004 the JLBC requires that we report all the LOS ratings in our strategic plan as only one composite number that combines the ratings from all features statewide.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Identify how the level of maintenance funding impacts the level-of-service measurements of the different features on the state highway system.
  2. Identify how to predict the change in level-of-service measurements for a specific feature when the funding spent on that feature changes.
  3. Develop appropriate weighting factors to combine a wide variety of features and inventory
  4. Develop a single, composite rating that mathematically combines and integrates the ratings from all the features and feature groups statewide.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) will contract with a consultant to conduct the research. ADOT central maintenance will assist in providing necessary cost data and level-of-service measurements from the maintenance management system.

The research will allow the Intermodal Transportation Division (ITD) to better allocate scarce maintenance funding to more efficiently maintain and operate the state highway system. It will also allow a better prediction of the impact on the system from a proposed increase or decrease in the budget. The state engineer’s office will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is not yet underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Jim Dorre Arizona Department of Transportation Maintenance
Lonnie Hendrix Arizona Department of Transportation Maintenance
Murray Cullon Arizona Department of Transportation Maintenance
Jani Demaree Arizona Department of Transportation Maintenance
Ken Davis Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

Project 565, FY 2003

Grand Canyon National Park Visitor Transportation Survey

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Cheryl Cothran

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

$15,000

Original Completion Date: 12/31/04
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$6,750

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$8,250

Advantage No.: R056515P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


50%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Visitors to Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP), Arizona’s premier attraction, average approximately 4.5m/year. Motor vehicles are the main travel mode for the vast majority of park visitors (car, rental, recreational vehicle (RV), tour bus, etc.); thus GCNP visitors have an enormous impact on highways and transportation corridors throughout Arizona, especially northern Arizona. Yet, the exact nature of this impact is not known. A scientific survey, conducted over a full-year to account for seasonal variations, has not been conducted since 1983. The Arizona Hospitality Research and Resource Center (AHRRC) at Northern Arizona University has proposed, in conjunction with the National Park Service, to conduct a thorough survey of GCNP visitors. This research will produce data on highway usage and visitors’ travel patterns, including: travel mode (auto, rental, RV, tour bus, air, etc.); state-entry points and park-entrance roads used; overall trip miles; roads traveled and communities visited; perceptions (quality/satisfaction) of northern Arizona roadways; perceptions of highway safety & congestion; availability of traveler amenities/rest stops; other areas in consultation with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT).

Transportation problems are not new to GCNP; automobile congestion inside the park is critical, auto congestion on SR 64, 180 & 89 is problematic. Also, state-owned GCNP airport is a key player in the park transport system and visitor experience – mainly carrying out-of-state (Las Vegas) & foreign visitors. Visitors’ transportation data are critical to ADOT decision-makers for planning decisions concerning major roadways (SR64, 180 and 89 and GCNP airport), and road logistics (procurement, maintenance, etc.). Traffic counts do not tell the whole story of current highway usage or help assess future needs.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

Increase knowledge of GCNP visitors’ travel patterns, road usage – quantitative & qualitative.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) will conduct the research in partnership with NAU and with permission of the National Park Service. ADOT management will determine how the research output will be integrated into the state’s planning activities.

This research helps to develop transportation strategies to improve the overall efficiency of the transportation system, reduce environmental impacts, plan infrastructure investments, efficient access, and development patterns. Information is essential to inform decision-makers at all levels – federal, state and local – on issues regarding visitor travel patterns on Arizona roadways, as well as overall use and allocation of TEA-21 funds, with special attention to national park and tourism/visitor usage. The process owner would be the Transportation Planning Division of ADOT.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Cheryl Cothran Northern Arizona University
Sharon Gordon Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 


 

Project 567, FY 2003

Remedies for Driver Error

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Jack Faucett

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

$11,760

Original Completion Date: 12/31/04
Program Budget:

$12,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$12,000

Advantage No.: R056715P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


20%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Driver error is the largest single cause of traffic crashes. Three types of remedies are available for reducing the frequencies of driver error: education, enforcement, and engineering.

The question is which type of remedy is most effective for specific instances of driver error.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Conduct a thorough evaluation of existing research on crashes caused by driver error.
  2. Conduct a thorough evaluation of existing research on remedies for driver error and the circumstances affecting their effectiveness.
  3. Compile a matrix/reference document of remedies and estimated effectiveness.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) will conduct the research with the assistance of one or more university graduate students. Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) management will determine whether to advocate any changes in existing law. If legislation is needed, ADOT will work with the governor and legislature to draft appropriate new laws.

The research will result in information that helps promote cost-effective remedies for driver error. With this information, more effective investment of public funds in highway transportation will be possible. ADOT’s Traffic Safety section will be the process owner. ADOT management will decide whether to implement any operational changes.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is nearing completion.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Richard Fimbres Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Council
Reed Henry ADOT Traffic Safety
Cindy Eiserman ADOT Risk Management
Sarath Joshua Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG)
Jennifer Brown Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

 

Project 568, FY 2003

Arizona Highways Magazine’s Impact on Tourism

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Kathleen Andereck

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

$15,000

Original Completion Date: 12/31/04
Program Budget:

$17,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/04
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$17,000

Advantage No.: R056815P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


20%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Arizona Highways Magazine, part of the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), is a world-renowned travel publication. Anecdotal data from the Arizona Office of Tourism coupled with data from subscriber research suggests the magazine is annually responsible for over $300 million in tourist revenue (not counting direct revenue from subscribers and sales of related products such as calendars, books and general merchandise).

We need to be able to more formally quantify this number in order to better understand the dynamics between the magazine, its related products’ revenue and tourism revenue. This will help maximize the magazine’s impact on boosting tourist revenue for the state of Arizona and build the case for using some of this revenue for highway improvements.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.   Quantify and document the link between Arizona Highways magazine and tourist traffic and revenue.

2.   Ascertain the implications for highway facility needs and revenue generation.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) will conduct the research with the assistance of one or more university graduate students. Arizona Highways’ publisher will determine how to modify processes at the magazine to best implement the research findings.

The research will result in information that could be used to guide a more effective use of Arizona Highways magazine to stimulate tourism and tourist revenue generation in Arizona. Arizona Highways magazine will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is nearing completion.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Win Holden Arizona Highways Magazine
Terry Trost Office of Strategic Planning and Budget
Bob Steele Arizona Highways Magazine
Bob Early Arizona Highways Magazine
Sharon Gordon Federal Highway Administration
John Semmens Arizona Transportation Research Center Project Manager

 

 

 

 

Project 578, FY 2004

Evaluating and Improving the Dyed Diesel Education and Enforcement Program

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/04
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: 12/31/05
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$15,000

Advantage No.: R057816P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The IRS and the State of Arizona allow diesel used for farm, construction, or other off-road use to be purchased tax-free. This tax-free diesel must be dyed red to identify it as off-road diesel and fuel suppliers must report their sales of dyed diesel on a monthly basis. Because about one-third of the retail price of diesel is tax, there is motivation to inappropriately use dyed diesel in on-road vehicles. The on-road use of dyed diesel deprives the State of highway tax revenue and in August, 2002, ADOT initiated federally funded education and enforcement efforts to decrease inappropriate (i.e., on-road) use of dyed diesel.

The current education and enforcement efforts are resulting in the collection of taxes and penalties, but the ultimate program goal of decreasing the on-road use of dyed diesel cannot currently be evaluated. Currently there are no indicators of what impact the education and enforcement program has on on-road dyed diesel use. The needed indicators can be developed from an analysis of ADOT fuel supplier report data. In addition, ADOT counterparts at the IRS engage in similar education and enforcement efforts. The IRS has agreed to provide access to their fuel supplier data in support of this evaluation. The collaborative nature of this project will result in the creation of robust program effectiveness measures.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.      Identify valid measures of effectiveness for dyed diesel education and enforcement efforts.

2.      Evaluate the effectiveness of the dyed diesel education and enforcement efforts.

3.      Identify opportunities for improving the effectiveness of education and enforcement efforts.

4.      Identify strategies for improving the effectiveness of education and enforcement efforts.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The Arizona Transportation Research Center (ATRC) will conduct the research with the assistance of one or more university graduate students. ADOT management will determine which improvement strategies to pursue.

The research will result in knowledge that will allow ADOT to evaluate and improve dyed diesel education and enforcement efforts. ADOT MVD will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is not yet underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Director, MVD: Stacey K. Stanton
Deputy Director, ADOT: Debra Brisk
MVD MC & TS: Kathy Morley
MVD Revenue Accounting: John Tisdel
Fuel Tax Evasion Unit: Timothy Lee
FHWA: Sharon Gordon
ATRC: John Semmens

 

 

 

Project 579, FY 2004

Making a Good First Impression: Improving PreDesign and Environmental Public Information

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/04
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: 12/31/05
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$15,000

Advantage No.: R057916P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

From project scoping through ADOT’s initial investigations into project viability, the public receives its first opportunity to review and comment upon potential projects. This exposure forms a first impression of ADOT’s professionalism; its accountability toward accepting desired design concepts; and setting an appropriate standard for final design and, ultimately, construction.

Needed is a more refined and consistent approach for seeking public involvement and for positioning ADOT as an accountable professional services provider dedicated to bettering Arizona’s transportation systems and its citizens’ quality of life through extensive public information and community relations programs.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Identify how ADOT customers are introduced to potential future projects by defining the roles of PreDesign Project Managers, Environmental Planners and Engineering Consultants.
  2. Identify types of public notification and methods used to gain and implement public involvement as project development advances prior to the initiation of final design to specifically determine how ADOT customers are to remain informed and involved during the process.
  3. Determine the potential benefits of assigning a full-time Public Information Project Manager to conduct customer relations during the initial stages of the project introduction and the concomitant public involvement process that occurs prior to initiation of final design.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will result in knowledge that will allow ADOT to improve its PreDesign processes. The ADOT Community Relations Office will be the process owner.

The research will result in knowledge that will allow ADOT to evaluate and improve dyed diesel education and enforcement efforts. ADOT MVD will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is not yet underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Doug Nintzel
Matt Burdick
Mark Bonan
Mary Viparina
Vince Li
Shannon Wilhelmsen
Ginger Murdough
William Vachon
John Semmens

 

 

 

Project 580, FY 2004

Barcode Inventory System

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/04
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: 12/31/05
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$15,000

Advantage No.: R058016P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

The current annual inventory process relies completely on personnel and handwritten documentation. Human error and a lengthy documenting process is not cost effective or time productive. With this process relying on written tracking method multiple items that are listed as lost are usually located in another office, sent to surplus or in storage.

ADOT needs to research the availability of a bar code tag printer, hand held scanners and a software program to accommodate the information. This program could track items as they are received, sent to surplus, storage throughout the year instead of annually.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1.   Assess barcode technology and its cost-effectiveness for conducting ADOT inventories.

2.   Install a barcode system as a pilot project and collect data on its effectiveness.

3.   Determine whether barcode technology should be implemented organization-wide in appropriate settings.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

ATRC will conduct the research in two phases. One phase will consist of pre-installation analysis of options. The other will consist of equipment acquisition and installation and evaluation of results.

The research will provide data that could be used to achieve more effective inventory measurements/audits. The ADOT Process owner would be Fixed Assets section of ADOT.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is not yet underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Richard Gromoll
Craig Rudolphy
Robyn Caillouette
Stanley Soesilo
Sharon Gordon
Project Mgr.: John Semmens

 

 

 

 

Project 583, FY 2004

Open Source Software Study

Research Agency:

Arizona Transportation
Research Center

Program Date: 10/01/04
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: 12/31/05
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: 12/31/05
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$15,000

Advantage No.: R058016P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

John Semmens

PROBLEM STATEMENT

ADOT currently spends over 1 Million dollars annually for software licenses, software maintenance, and support contracts for software in the enterprise. This covers both software on the desktop and server software. Open source software (OSS) such as the Linux operating system, Apache web server, Sendmail mail server, Open Office office suite, etc are all examples of stable, secure, reliable, and free software packages which could possibly replace existing commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Determine where open source software may fit into the ADOT enterprise to replace current COTS software or add new functionality not covered by existing software.
  2. Examine the benefits and risks of using OSS vs. COTS software within ADOT.
  3. Estimate cost savings (Direct and Indirect) of utilizing OSS software within ADOT.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

ATRC will conduct the research with the assistance of one or more university graduate students. ADOT management will decide whether to adopt a new software standard.

This research will give ADOT an understanding of the expected costs, benefits, and risks involved with implementing OSS in the enterprise. ADOT will gain experience in OSS through piloting one or more applications to better understand some of the intangibles involved. ITG will be the process owner.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The project is not yet underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

ITG: Jamie Rybarczyk
ITG: Tami Price
ITG: Rich Nacinovich
ITG: Bob Powell
ATRC: John Semmens
FHWA: Sharon Gordon

 

 

Structures

Project 493, FY 2000

Bridge Foundation Design Parameters and Procedures for Bearing in SGC Soils.

Research Agency:

Arizona State University

Program Date: 7/01/99
Principal Investigator(s):

Dr. Bill Houston

Contract Date: 11/18/00
Contract Amount:

$150,000

Original Completion Date: 05/17/02
Program Budget:

$214,808

Estimated Completion Date: 11/30/04
Expenditures to date:

$180,596

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$34,212

Advantage No.: R0493 12P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


70%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Drilled shaft foundations support a significant portion of the bridge substructures in Arizona. These drilled shafts are commonly supported in mixed soils types known as sand-gravel-cobbles (SGC) layer and derive their capacities from side friction and end bearing in SGC layer. Current design procedures and parameters are based on uniform soil conditions. Soils medium is modeled either as clay or sand. Limited amounts of research data are available for design of drilled shafts supported in granular soils with significant gravel and cobble contents. Current American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) design method for drilled shafts in granular soils medium is based on the equations proposed by Reese and O’Neil (Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Procedure). Meyerhoff and Kulhawy developed the other two common design procedures. Available load test data indicate that measured drilled shaft capacities tend to be larger with an increase in gravel content of the granular soils than the design capacities. Additionally, the capacity tends to increase with the increase of calcium carbonate cementation. However, definitive relationships among these variables and corresponding design parameters are not available for general design applications. Drilled shafts in mixed soils (i.e., SGC) conditions will support significant number of bridge foundations in the future. Significant savings could be realized if design parameters and procedures could be developed to account for the increase in friction of soils with the increase of gravel content and calcium carbonate cementation.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Prepare an evaluation of the current AASHTO design methods for Drilled Shaft foundation.
  2. Prepare a comparative analysis of Drilled Shaft foundations based on AASHTO design method and those based on load tests in granular soils with gravel and cobbles.
  3. Evaluate the added strength of soils due to the presence of gravel and cobbles along with/without cementation in soils.
  4. Recommend changes in design parameters and design procedures.

The following tasks will be performed:

  1. Develop a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC).
  2. Meet with TAC to prepare a Scope of Work and select a consultant.
  3. Conduct a literature search on the issues of drilled shaft foundation design in granular soils.
  4. Conduct an evaluation of the current AASHTO design methods for drilled shaft foundation, for their basis and limitations in regard to SGC materials.
  5. Prepare a comparative study of drilled shaft capacities based on AASHTO design methods and those based on load test data in granular soils with gravel and cobbles.
  6. Identify the design parameters that could be modified to account for additional capacities of drilled shaft foundation in SGC soils with and without cementation.
  7. Develop design parameters and procedures for drilled shafts supported by SGC soils.
  8. Prepare a memo for submittal to AASHTO Technical Committee T-15 for revision of the AASHTO procedure for design of drilled shaft foundations.
  9. Document the research efforts and findings in a final report.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research has resulted in an evaluation of the current AASHTO design method for drilled shaft foundations based on the available load test data on drilled shafts in SGC soils. The research has provided information to be used to improve the design of drilled shaft foundations for bridges and structures.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The research has been basically completed during the past year. Research work was on hold while a separate effort to initiate a related Federal Pooled Fund project was monitored. The completed final draft report has been submitted to ATRC for review before publication.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Dan Heller TY Lin, Inc.
Shafi Hasan Bridge Engineering, ADOT
J.J. Liu Materials, ADOT
Doug Alexander Materials, ADOT
Aryan Lirange FHWA
Rosendo Gutierrez ATRC, ADOT

 

 

 

 

Project 510, FY 2001

Performance of Various Types of Bridge Deck Joints.

Research Agency:

Michael Baker Engr.

Program Date: 7/01/01
Principal Investigator(s):

John Misik, P.E.

Contract Date: December 2002
Contract Amount:

$99,082

Original Completion Date: August 2003
Program Budget:

$100,000

Estimated Completion Date: October 2004
Expenditures to date:

$82,040

Is project on schedule? No
Available Amount:

$17,960

Advantage No.: R0510 13P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


95%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Each year numerous bridge deck joints must be replaced and/or repaired in the Arizona State Highway System Inventory. Certain types of bridge deck joints have failed prematurely or required extensive repairs within a very short time after installation. This is due in part, but not limited to, poor design, poor quality materials, improper engineering, faulty installation, and poor concrete quality. This has become a great concern in maintaining the state highway system, not to mention the enormous cost of replacing and/or repairing bridge deck joints. This also causes great inconvenience to the motoring public due to traffic control and closures required on an already congested highway system.

Although considerable research has been conducted in this area, most of the work deals with bridges built in other climates. The desert Southwest imposes some unique performance requirements. The area is arid, experiences large daily temperature changes, and high ultraviolet exposure. The northern portion of the state is also subjected to cold temperatures, and ice and snow control (salt and cinders) measures. The performance of bridge deck joint seals in Arizona has been evaluated and joint seal designs developed for the unique Arizona conditions. The initial research has discovered that the primary cause for bridge deck problems is in the various initial installation steps. The research is developing tools for construction and inspection to assure the deck joints are properly installed. A video is being prepared for use by construction inspectors, as their turnover rate is high.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

Investigate the design, performance, durability, cost effectiveness, constructibility, and maintenance of existing bridge deck joints on the Arizona State Highway System.

Summarize the findings for existing bridge deck joints, with special attention paid to types of failures and the reasons for them.

In addition to existing types, analyze other alternative bridge deck joints available on the market in light of existing problems. Specifically look at the role the Southwest’s climate plays in the design, performance, durability, cost effectiveness, constructibility, and maintenance of bridge deck joints.

  1. Provide recommendations for bridge deck joints for all the various applications utilized by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Bridge Group on the Arizona State Highway System.
  2. Produce the necessary specifications for the recommended types of bridge deck joints and concrete.

The following tasks will be performed:

  1. Develop a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC).
  2. Meet with the TAC to prepare a scope of work and select a consultant.
  3. Conduct a brief literature search on the available bridge deck joints.
  4. Investigate the design, performance, durability, cost effectiveness, constructibility, and maintenance of existing bridge deck joints on the Arizona state highway system. Selected bridge joints to determine the failure modes
  5. Review design, durability, cost effectiveness, constructibility, and maintenance of the selected samples.
  6. Evaluate other possible types of bridge deck joints available on the market to determine suitability in the southwestern climate.
  7. Recommend appropriate bridge deck joints installation procedures and specifications based on sound engineering findings, that will provide long term durability, cost effectiveness, minimal maintenance with proper installation, and the least amount of inconvenience to the general motoring public.
  8. Document the research effort and findings in a final report with specifications.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The research will result in ADOT Bridge Group being able to immediately implement the recommended types of bridge deck joints, procedures and recommendations for various applications on ongoing and for future projects statewide.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Engineering Consultant selected. Project about 35% completed. Literature research completed. Bridge Deck life cycle analysis completed. Research will be completed focusing on installation aides, procedures and specification recommendations.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Aryan Lirange Federal Highway Administration Jean Nehme Bridge Group
Donald Rushton Materials Testing Section Dan Williams Construction
Shawn Farahzadi Construction Operations Section Bob Webb Construction
Clifton Guest Bridge Management Section Walter Kent Link District
Tina Sisley Bridge Design Section
Pe-Shen Yang Bridge Engineering Group
James Pyne T Y Lin,  Inc.

 

 

 

Project 538, FY 2002

High Performance Concrete for Bridge Structures in Arizona.

Research Agency:

Jabar Engineering

Program Date: 10/01/2002
Principal Investigator(s):

Tarif Jabar, P.E.

Contract Date: August 2003
Contract Amount:

$150,000

Original Completion Date: May 2004
Program Budget:

$150,000

Estimated Completion Date: May 2005
Expenditures to date:

$79

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$149,021

Advantage No.: R053814P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


25%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

In order to stimulate the use of higher quality concrete in highway structures, the Federal Highway Administration has strongly promoted high performance concrete (HPC) materials. High performance concrete has been found to be feasible in all aspects of concrete bridges including the decks, piers, and pre-stressed concrete girder cross-sections. Several studies have indicated that using concrete compressive strengths of up to 10,000 psi allowed longer span lengths and more economical structures. Many state agencies have thus saved construction time and money by using high performance concrete. One of the reasons why HPC is not regularly specified for highway structures in Arizona may be the lack of available data regarding the field use in hot and arid climates. This proposal will seek to develop and implement the use of high performance concrete in Arizona's bridges.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this research project are to evaluate the applicability of using high performance concrete in structures in Arizona and to determine any climate-related issues associated with the use of high performance concrete.

ACTION PLAN - TASKS

The researcher will accomplish the following tasks:

  1. Meet with the Technical Advisory Committee to discuss the scope of work and action plan.
  2. Conduct a literature and research-in-progress search and review the practice within Arizona, other departments of transportation, and throughout the industry. Prepare a state-of-the-art/state-of the practice report.
  3. In addition to improved durability effects, the effect of using HPC in the deck will be evaluated on the flexural strength, ductility, pre-stress losses, and long-term deflections of the superstructure
  4. Several mix designs will be developed and used in a laboratory-testing program. Performance based tests will be conducted to assess the characteristics of the materials.
  5. Prepare a plan and specifications for the design and construction of a designated high performance concrete bridge project in Arizona. The plan shall include high performance concrete mixtures for the Arizona Department of Transportation Bridge Group to use for the design of bridge columns, girders, and decks. The plan will also address the curing requirements, shrinkage cracking, strength, and toughness requirement.
  6. Results will be documented and compiled as a user-manual for high performance concrete in bridge structures in hot and arid climates. A cost analysis study will be performed. Results will be used to identify possible modifications to current practice.
  7. Document the research effort and findings in a final report in accordance with ATRC guidelines.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This project will increase the acceptability of high performance concrete materials in the local community. It will help address some of the process, parameters, and design challenges faced by the bridge group in designing cost-effective, compact, and strong structures through the use of higher strength materials. By reducing extra piers and members, it may reduce the size requirements of many new and rehabilitated structures. The research results will be tested in specific bridge design project.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Consultant contract awarded and research project underway. Literature research completed

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Aryan Lirange Federal Highway Administration
Jean Nehme Bridge Group
Oscar Mousavi Materials
Henry M. Sung Bridge Design
Greg Lingor Parsons Group
Shawn Farahzadi Construction
Construction Inspection
District Engineer


 

 

Project 541, FY 2002

Protective Strategies and Retrofit Schemes for Concrete Bridge Decks in Arizona.

Research Agency:

KPFF Engineers

Program Date: 10/01/2002
Principal Investigator(s):

Brian B. Raji P.E.

Contract Date: August 2003
Contract Amount:

$150,000

Original Completion Date: October 2004
Program Budget:

$150,000

Estimated Completion Date: February 2005
Expenditures to date:

$79

Is project on schedule? No
Available Funds

$149,921

Advantage No.: R054114P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


25%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Corrosion in reinforcing steel and the lack of concrete durability are two of the most severe deterioration problems for bridges today. Arizona has experienced both of these problems. Today, the increasing use of de-icing chemicals has been accompanied by the need for increasing attention to bridge deck maintenance and repair work. Currently, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has 31 bridges on Interstate and State Routes requiring some kind of bridge deck rehabilitation. The cost to rehabilitate these bridge decks becomes very expensive due to the traffic controls and the adopted retrofit methods. In addition, more bridge decks need to be rehabilitated due to their aging and de-icing chemical usage. The current budget for deck repair is not adequate and ADOT needs to establish a cost-effective program to repair these deteriorated bridge decks in a systematic way with current up-to-date technologies available. A research project needs to be established to study the following topics: (1) protective strategies to minimize the deck deterioration problems and (2) cost effective retrofit schemes to rehabilitate deteriorated bridge decks.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this research project are to develop: protective strategies to minimize bridge deck deterioration and cost-effective retrofit schemes to rehabilitate deteriorated bridge decks.

Research Tasks

  1. Develop a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC).
  2. Prepare a scope of work and select a consultant.
  3. Conduct a literature and research-in-progress search and review the practice within Arizona, other departments of transportation, and throughout the industry. Prepare a state-of-the-art/state-of the practice report.
  4. Review the status of the bridge decks within the state system. Visit bridges to review the deterioration problem, meet with ADOT Maintenance personnel to discuss the repair and maintenance issues, and meet with the bridge design and management personnel to gain their perspective on the problem. Prepare a report defining the issues and problems.
  5. Recommend protective strategies to minimize bridge deck deterioration, and cost-effective retrofit schemes to rehabilitate deteriorated bridge decks. These recommendations must be justified with technical data and information.
  6. Develop implementation materials to incorporate these techniques, strategies, materials, procedures, etc. into ADOT practice. These implementation materials will include specifications, design guidelines, construction details and any other materials required to foster implementation.
  7. Document the research effort and findings in a final report in accordance with ATRC guidelines.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

Effective protective strategies to minimize bridge deck deterioration, and cost-effective retrofit schemes to rehabilitate deteriorated bridge decks will be incorporated into ADOT practice and manuals. One bridge project rehab will be completed during the research period.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

Consultant selected. Research begun. Literature research completed.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Aryan Lirange Federal Highway Administration
David Sikes Maintenance
Don Rushton Materials
Clifton Guest Bridge Group
Pe-Shen Yang Bridge Group
Sheng-Yung Hsu Bridge Section
Dick Westin The Stanley Group
Construction
District

 


 

Project 586, FY 2005

Earth Pressures on Cantilevered Retaining Wall

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/2002
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: August 2005
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: October 2005
Program Budget: $150,000 Estimated Completion Date: October 20005
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? NA
Available Funds

$150,000

Advantage No.: R0586 17P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)
Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

A number of significant research projects related to backfill material for retaining structures have been performed over the last decade. Cohesive soil, controlled low strength materials (CLSMs), recycled tire chip soil mix and more were studied for backfill material. But recycled asphaltic concrete and recycled crushed concrete have rarely been included in these studies. Recently contractors on several ADOT construction projects proposed using recycled concrete materials for structure backfill behind concrete cantilever retaining walls. Contractors have claimed that recycling existing concrete material from pavement removal in the vicinity of the project and using the material for the structure backfill behind the new retaining wall construction would be a significant cost saving idea. ADOT Geotechnical Design Section of Material Group and Bridge Design Sections of Bridge Group are very skeptical about this idea because of unavailability of data for design parameters for these materials unless extensive research is performed in this area. These design parameters consist of unit weight, internal frictional angle, shear strength, permeability and etc. Amount of moisture retained in the backfill material is directly related to permeability issue of backfill that will greatly affect the earth pressure acting on the wall. The finding of this investigation will provide the information to ADOT for evaluating the proposed materials sensibly and fairly. Acceptance of these materials is heavily dependent on the result of this research that will eventually link to the cost and quality of the future retaining wall construction.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

Investigate earth pressure distribution on concrete cantilever retaining wall for (1) Structure Backfill meeting ADOT’s current specifications (2) Recycled quality asphaltic concrete backfill mix (3) Recycled Quality Crushed Concrete backfill mix.

  1. Identify quality and gradation requirements for the above backfill materials
  2. Establish backfill drainage and compaction criteria.
  3. Investigate earth pressure and pore water pressure on wall face.
  4. Examine the effect on backfill settlement, including long term effects if any.

Research Tasks

  1. Develop a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC).
  2. Meet with TAC to prepare a scope of work and select a consultant.
  3. Conduct a brief literature search on the topic of application in the use of variable structural backfill for retaining wall.
  4. Select and establish three sample mixes for each of the three backfill materials mentioned in the Research Objectives.
  5. Conduct necessary soil tests in order to obtain design parameters for the selected backfill sample mixes so that unit weight, internal frictional angle, shear strength and etc. can be determined.
  6. Document the research effort and findings in a final report.
  7. The compilation of these design parameters in the report enable ADOT to evaluate the benefit for using the investigated recycled concrete materials versus the conventional structure backfill materials.
  8. If the finding indicates that using recycled concrete backfill materials for concrete cantilever retaining wall has the advantage in cost and quality over the conventional structural backfill material, a second phase of the research may require a redesign of the ADOT retaining wall standard drawings when time and funding become available.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTAION

The result from the research will provide the technical information to ADOT in order to evaluate the quality and value for using various proposed concrete backfill mixes that have been proposed by contractors.

STAUS OF RESEARCH

This research has not yet begun.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Champions: Shafi Hasan and Henry Sung, ADOT Bridge Group

ATRC: Rosendo Gutierrez

 

 

Traffic and Safety

Project 537, FY 2002

Safety Related Data Management

Research Agency:

Arcadis Consultants

Program Date: 10/01/2002
Principal Investigator(s):

Steve Martin PM

Contract Date: May 2004
Contract Amount:

$148,000

Original Completion Date: February 2005
Program Budget:

$150,000

Estimated Completion Date: February 2005
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$150,000

Advantage No.: R0537 14P
Percent complete
Through 6/30/04


10%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(Project Manager)

Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

State transportation agencies, such as the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), are responsible for ensuring the safety and operational efficiency of state highways. Additionally, ADOT is mandated to collect and report accident information on an annual basis. This information is used by ADOT, county, and local jurisdictions to identify safety issues, plan counter-measures, and evaluate the effectiveness of safety-related improvements. While the goals are to provide a safe and efficient highway system, and to limit liability, staff and funding available for these purposes are limited.

Traditional analyses performed by state traffic and safety engineers to identify highway safety issues, to design and implement solutions, and to evaluate the results have been undertaken using largely manual methods in the past. Many analyses can now be automated using geographic information system technology to enhance their effectiveness and timeliness. These processes depend upon the availability of suitable accident records, traffic data, and other related data. Federal highway officials recommend and support developing more accurate, timely and complete highway safety data and traffic records systems. To help reduce highway deaths and injuries, federal officials have developed prototype tools around such data for various safety analyses: Strip, Spot/Intersection, Cluster, Sliding Scale, and Truck Corridor analysis.

Standard technological innovations, such as desktop- and Intranet/Internet-based geographic information systems (GIS) also offer robust and powerful platforms for identifying, analyzing, and disseminating accident information in the form of tabulations, reports, and maps. Research is needed to transform all of the accident, traffic and other data into knowledge so that better investment decisions can be made in regard to safety enhancements.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this research project are to:

  1. Investigate how current accident data and GIS at ADOT can be leveraged to perform safety analysis functions.
  2. Design procedures, tools, and applications that ADOT and local jurisdictions can use to effectively identify, analyze, map, and report accident information and safety enhancements.
  3. Research the requirements to implement these tools at ADOT.
  4. Develop a plan for their implementation.

The following tasks will be performed:

  1. Develop a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC).
  2. Prepare a scope of work and select a consultant.
  3. Conduct a literature search and state-of-the-practice review of accident data collection, storage and analysis techniques.
  4. Conduct a review of the ADOT accident data resource and information resource plans. Review the state-of-the-practice of safety analysis and accident data utilization.
  5. Develop a list of the accident data and its attributes (metadata about the data) and any other data needed to conduct the appropriate safety analyses.
  6. Review the technology used by ADOT to collect store and distribute accident data and the state of the art in these areas.
  7. Develop a plan for an accident data system that will include essential data elements and attributes, data sources, database structure, data users, data collection technology, data distribution, analysis tools, and interfaces.
  8. Document the research effort and findings in a final report in accordance with ATRC guidelines.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This project would lead to safety research tools that leverage and enhance existing data at ADOT and may identify and develop other valuable data for use throughout the agency. It initiates the development of automated GIS-based tools for identifying high accident intersections and highway segments, investigating the accident rates, and evaluating subsequent improvements. The system could include automated density mapping, cluster analysis, correlations with other information (i.e. pavement width), statistical analysis, collision diagrams, maps, querying, and reporting. ADOT and other agencies could utilize the system for their own purposes. Implementation will be incorporated into this research project with additional funding to insure functionality of research findings.

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The TAC has met and the Scope of work for the RFP has been developed. RFP has been advertised for consultant.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Jennifer Brown FHWA
Doanh Bui ITG
Reed Henry Traffic Engineering
Sarath Joshua MAG
Annette Riley Traffic Engineering
GIS

 

 

 

 

Project 556, FY 2003

Right Turn Control Study: Yield Signs or Signals for Off-Ramps at Single-Point Urban Traffic Interchanges

Research Agency:

Lee Engineering

Program Date: 10/01/02
Principal Investigator(s):

Jim Lee P.E.

Contract Date: August 2003
Contract Amount:

$74,790

Original Completion Date: May 2004
Program Budget:

$75,000

Estimated Completion Date: October 2004
Expenditures to date:

$56,837

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$18,163

Advantage No.: R055615P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


80%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
T & S Project manger
Rosendo
Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

A preliminary comparison of accident records has been done for selected Single-Point Urban Interchanges (SPUIs) in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The results show that there have been a high number of accidents, and crashes of certain types, at the right turn yield locations of these TI’s, compared to the signalized locations.

The SPUI sites reviewed initially were selected for their comparable high traffic volumes with little variation shown by day of the week. These sites include different control types for the right turn movements from the freeway off-ramps. At various SPUI locations around the Valley, there may be both one-lane designated right turns and two-lane designated right turns. Within these various locations, some of these turning movements are yield controlled and some are signal controlled. The impacts on capacity of these choices are also a concern.

If the preliminary data is correct, a higher level of safety or reduction in accidents may be possible for specific turning movements in these traffic interchanges, with the incorporation of different and/or more consistent modes of traffic control.

A thorough, more detailed study is indicated by these results, to compare the advantages of signal control vs. yield control at various applicable locations. This research effort, if done in a timely manner, could have a significant impact on traffic control decisions and on traffic safety at these and future related SPUI locations.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

Preliminary analysis indicates that this is a serious safety issue. This project will perform a thorough and more detailed study, with a larger body of sample locations, comparing the safety performance and relative advantages of signal control vs. yield control at SPUIs.

The following tasks will be performed:

  1. Review current literature and research in progress as to safety factors of similar TI designs.
  2. With TAC support, develop criteria and work plans for an in-depth study of safety and operational issues with right-turn movements at all SPUI locations in the metro Phoenix area.
  3. Analyze the accident records from key SPUIs as recommended by the TAC.
  4. Monitor, record and analyze traffic movements and conflicts at these selected SPUIs.
  5. Present the study results with clear recommendations to the TAC, including the costs and benefits of changes to traffic control, if implemented.
  6. Prepare a project summary report for ADOT.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

The results of this research will provide the Department with a higher understanding of what type of control to implement at future SPUI locations. A higher level of safety will be gained from the changes that may be recommended by this study. ADOT’s Traffic Design, Traffic Operations and Maintenance sections will benefit from these results and from the definition of the changes to be made.

The benefits of this research would include:

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

The consultant was selected in July 2003 and the project research has begun

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Aryan Lirange Federal highways Administration
Annette Riley ADOT Traffic Design
Ron Doubek City of Phoenix Traffic Engineering
George Chin ADOT Phoenix Regional Traffic Engineering
Mike Lessard ADOT Phoenix Regional traffic Engineering
Steve Bolduc Bolduc, Smiley & Associates, Inc.

 

 

 

Project 558, FY 2003

High-Risk Crash Site Identification in Arizona

Research Agency:

University of Arizona

Program Date: 10/01/03
Principal Investigator(s):

Simon Washington

Contract Date: February 2003
Contract Amount:

$65,000

Original Completion Date: November 2004
Program Budget:

$65,000

Estimated Completion Date: November 2004
Expenditures to date:

$25,768

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$39,232

Advantage No.: R055815P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


70%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(T&S Project Manager)

Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Identification of high-risk crash sites is a difficult task that has received much attention in the literature. Because of the random fluctuation of crashes from year to year, a crash site may ‘appear’ to represent a relatively high risk in a given year when in fact the site’s underlying, inherent risk level is average or below.

Previous methods rely on simple ranking of crash rates, which is problematic since rates are not linear functions. This can produce false positive indications and may lead to fixing of safety problems at locations not requiring remediation. Corrections to this ‘regression to the mean’ bias are often needed to account for the temporal fluctuation in crashes from year to year. Bayesian techniques, by accounting for both crash history and expected crashes for similar sites, have been shown to offer improved ability to identify ‘high-risk’ sites.

Many DOT’s face significant liabilities in regard to high-risk site identification and subsequent safety improvements. Because state-of-the-practice methods involve corrections for regression to the mean by Bayesian analysis, and since traditional ranking methods have been shown to do a poor job of identifying the truly high-risk sites, there is a significant need for this research.

This research project will focus on improving existing procedures for identifying ‘high-risk’ crash sites in Arizona. By using the recently released Arizona Local Government Safety Project Analysis Model (Carey, 2001) as a starting point, the focus will be on improving the predictions and ranking of hazardous sites from this model.

Through this research, ADOT will obtain the following positive results:

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE

The project has three primary objectives:

  1. To identify ‘high-risk’ sites using the latest technically correct and accepted methodology in Arizona (sites to be selected by ADOT - rural two-lane highway, urban freeway, etc.)
  2. To assess and validate the predictive performance of the Arizona Local Government Safety Project Analysis Model for identifying ‘high –risk’ locations.
  3. To provide recommended improvements to the Arizona Local Government Safety Project Analysis Model, so that efficient safety investments can be made in Arizona.

The following tasks will be performed:

  1. Apply the state-of-the-practice methods to hot-spot identification in Arizona. Coordinate this research with ADOT to prioritize needs and to identify the facilities for analysis (rural two-lane highways, urban freeways, interstates, etc.)
  2. Review Arizona Local Government Safety Project Analysis Model for technical deficiencies (currently does not do a Bayesian correction for regression to the mean).
  3. Assess the predictive performance of the Arizona Local Government Safety Project Analysis Model on the data selected in step 1.
  4. Compare the results of the Arizona Local Government Safety Project Analysis Model to the state-of-the-practice methods applied in step 1.
  5. Identify potential improvements to the Arizona Local Government Safety Project Analysis Model, so that future identification of ‘high-risk’ sites will be improved.
  6. Make a recommendation to the TAC on the benefits and/or improvements of this model, and prepare a detailed implementation plan.
  7. Prepare a final project summary report for ADOT in accordance with ATRC guidelines.

EXPECTED IMPLEMENTATION

This project is expected to provide tangible research results that may justify its long-term adoption by ADOT. It will demonstrate the benefits of state-of-the-practice Bayesian methodologies, as compared to the current analytical models, to more effectively identify high-risk sites for corrective safety measures.

The benefits to the State from this research would include:

STATUS OF THE RESEARCH

A consultant was selected in April 2003 and the project research is underway.

TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE (TAC)

Jennifer Brown Federal Highways Administration
Reed Henry ADOT Traffic Shan Chen ADOT
Jim Williams ADOT Data Randy Allenstein Local Government
Sarath Joshua MAG
Frank McCullagh ADOT Data
Larry Talley Mesa Transportation


 

Project SPR 582 FY 2005

Multi Modal Use of Freeway Corridors

Research Agency:

Pending

Program Date: 10/01/04
Principal Investigator(s):

Pending

Contract Date: Pending
Contract Amount:

Pending

Original Completion Date: Pending
Program Budget:

$15,000

Estimated Completion Date: Pending
Expenditures to date:

$0

Is project on schedule? Yes
Available Amount:

$15,000

Advantage No.: R058217P
Percent complete
through 6/30/04


0%

Responsible ATRC Staff:
(T&S Project Manager)

Rosendo Gutierrez

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Sharing freeway or state highway corridors with transit systems could have benefits related to transportation system planning and also cost savings. While aspects of this problem have been studied, a comprehensive compilation of current practices and research that would relate to Arizona is not available. This information would improve the State’s ability to develop cost effective transit solutions.

The research would develop strategies, which ADOT could implement for the multimodal optimization of urban freeway corridors that stimulate growth-induced demands for mobility. Roles of major participants in the development and funding of these strategies should be included.

The results of this research will assist transportation planners in developing long-term transit systems and likely save Arizona tax dollars by enabling the creation of lower cost transit systems.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

  1. Identify those practices that emulate the urban form, funding opportunities and legal environment of Arizona.
  2. Pre