This past Tuesday (4/3), MassDOT opened bids on a project to replace guide signs and structures, as well as all other warning, regulatory, and route signs, on Interstate 91 between the Connecticut line and the 'bowtie' interchange (Exit 13) in West Sipringfield. As with the recently awarded I-95 Wellesley to Lexington project, this work will include advance signing for I-91 on approach roads - with the exception of the signs on I-391 and I-291(the I-391 approach to I-91 was last updated in 2002, and the I-291 approach to I-91 was last updated in 2007).
The signing on this section of I-91 was last replaced in 1995. With the exception of button copy numerals on the OH Interstate shields, all exisitng signs are high-intensity sheeting with the old MassHighway standard 18 inch high 'integral' exit tabs (where the number ovelaps onto the main sign panel). Per current MassDOT specifications, the new signs will be high intensity prismatic (HIP) sheeting, with separate full height (30 inch per current MUTCD requirements) exit number tabs. Also, the button copy numerals on the Interstate shields will be replaced with demountable HIP numerals on the new signs.
Quote from: roadman on April 05, 2012, 02:41:22 PMAlso, the button copy numerals on the Interstate shields will be replaced with demountable HIP numerals on the new signs.
why are the numbers being made demountable? is this standard practice? I would imagine this to add cost compared to just digitally printing the numbers on, or even using stickers.
Quote from: roadman on April 05, 2012, 02:41:22 PM
This past Tuesday (4/3), MassDOT opened bids on a project to replace guide signs and structures, as well as all other warning, regulatory, and route signs, on Interstate 91 between the Connecticut line and the 'bowtie' interchange (Exit 13) in West Sipringfield. As with the recently awarded I-95 Wellesley to Lexington project, this work will include advance signing for I-91 on approach roads - with the exception of the signs on I-391 and I-291(the I-391 approach to I-91 was last updated in 2002, and the I-291 approach to I-91 was last updated in 2007).
The signing on this section of I-91 was last replaced in 1995. With the exception of button copy numerals on the OH Interstate shields, all exisitng signs are high-intensity sheeting with the old MassHighway standard 18 inch high 'integral' exit tabs (where the number ovelaps onto the main sign panel). Per current MassDOT specifications, the new signs will be high intensity prismatic (HIP) sheeting, with separate full height (30 inch per current MUTCD requirements) exit number tabs. Also, the button copy numerals on the Interstate shields will be replaced with demountable HIP numerals on the new signs.
Interesting. Those signs are in pretty good shape - some were replaced much later than 1995 when the Springfield exits were rearranged (2000s). I won't miss the button copy Interstate numerals, but then again, there were only a handful, and there are only a handful of I-91 pull-throughs within those project limits.
And as a side, I was hoping when I saw the topic of this thread that it was referring to I-91 VT or CT signage. The ones in VT up to Exit 10 are most likely 1970s-early 80s vintage (some have been replaced as part of individual projects) and those in CT especially from Hartford north are from the late 1980s-90s era.
Quote from: agentsteel53 on April 05, 2012, 03:28:45 PM
Quote from: roadman on April 05, 2012, 02:41:22 PMAlso, the button copy numerals on the Interstate shields will be replaced with demountable HIP numerals on the new signs.
why are the numbers being made demountable? is this standard practice? I would imagine this to add cost compared to just digitally printing the numbers on, or even using stickers.
As I noted in the thread about the I-95 Wellesley to Lexington sign project, in the late 1970s and early 1980s, MassDPW had problems with silk screened Interstate shields prematurely fading, thus causing the numbers to be illegible at night. They originally went to button copy numbers, but since button copy was discontinued in the early 1990s, the specification has since been changed to demountable high intesnity prismatic numbers.
And, despite advances in technology, silk screen Interstate shields are still prone to premature fading. The 93 shield on the pull-thru sign at Exit 27 northbound (northbound Zakim Bridge), which was NOT fabricated to MassHighway specifications, is a good example of a recently-installed sign that has problems.
Quote from: shadyjay on April 05, 2012, 04:29:39 PM
Interesting. Those signs are in pretty good shape - some were replaced much later than 1995 when the Springfield exits were rearranged (2000s).
There are one or two signs on the mainline, and a handful of signs on local streets in Downtown Springfield that will be reset or retained. By the time the other signs are replaced, they will have been in service for almost exactly twenty years since they were installed. High intensity retro-reflective sheeting slowly degrades over time, then loses its final "punch" very quickly - in western Massachusetts, this normally occurs at the 20 to 22 year mark. MassDOT's philosophy is simple - replace the signs before they wear out.
Also note that, during the 1995 update project, nearly all the sign supports (some of which date from the late 1960s) were retained. Apart from their age, none of these structures meet current MassDOT or AASHTO standards for design or wind loading.
Quote from: roadman on April 05, 2012, 07:14:40 PM
As I noted in the thread about the I-95 Wellesley to Lexington sign project, in the late 1970s and early 1980s, MassDPW had problems with silk screened Interstate shields prematurely fading, thus causing the numbers to be illegible at night. They originally went to button copy numbers, but since button copy was discontinued in the early 1990s, the specification has since been changed to demountable high intesnity prismatic numbers.
And, despite advances in technology, silk screen Interstate shields are still prone to premature fading. The 93 shield on the pull-thru sign at Exit 27 northbound (northbound Zakim Bridge), which was NOT fabricated to MassHighway specifications, is a good example of a recently-installed sign that has problems.
what about silk screening (or digital printing) over prismatic high intensity? or, alternately, using prismatic numbers that are simply stuck on, as opposed to being demountable? the "demountable" requirement seems to be an extra expense.
Quote from: agentsteel53 on April 05, 2012, 08:20:51 PM
what about silk screening (or digital printing) over prismatic high intensity? or, alternately, using prismatic numbers that are simply stuck on, as opposed to being demountable? the "demountable" requirement seems to be an extra expense.
Which is why the requirement is only for overhead signs - the extra expense of applying demountable numerals is negligible compared to the total cost of the sign panel. But silk screening over HIP sheeting is an interesting idea.
Quote from: roadman on April 05, 2012, 08:24:35 PMBut silk screening over HIP sheeting is an interesting idea.
the sign shop which makes my route markers has an option to digitally print over prismatic high intensity. I thought this was standard practice for recent signs used in the field. I do not know for sure, as I always request old-school engineer grade and therefore haven't paid much attention to new materials, but I can inquire about the HIP usage patterns.
I was on I-91 from the state line to the MassPike interchange about 18 months ago, and the signage appeared to be in great shape then. This seems IMHO to be a huge waste of money.
Quote from: hbelkins on April 05, 2012, 09:53:30 PM
I was on I-91 from the state line to the MassPike interchange about 18 months ago, and the signage appeared to be in great shape then. This seems IMHO to be a huge waste of money.
I respectfully refer you to my earlier follow-up post in this thread about the useful lifespan of retro-reflective sheeting
Quote from: roadman on April 06, 2012, 05:00:46 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on April 05, 2012, 09:53:30 PM
I was on I-91 from the state line to the MassPike interchange about 18 months ago, and the signage appeared to be in great shape then. This seems IMHO to be a huge waste of money.
I respectfully refer you to my earlier follow-up post in this thread about the useful lifespan of retro-reflective sheeting
Kentucky gets a heck of a lot longer than 17 years out of its guide signage. Much of the signage on the Mountain Parkway is more than 30 years old. Some of the signage on I-75 and I-65 is of similar vintage.
Quote from: hbelkins on April 06, 2012, 10:05:50 PM
Kentucky gets a heck of a lot longer than 17 years out of its guide signage. Much of the signage on the Mountain Parkway is more than 30 years old. Some of the signage on I-75 and I-65 is of similar vintage.
I'll take your word for it. I refuse to drive through or even patronize a state that not only bans the use of mobile scanners (even if you're a licensed Ham), but also gives their state patrol officers the authority to confiscate your radio equipment on sight.
As for your comment about the lifespan of signs in Massachusetts, it's my understanding that MassDOT will be looking at the performance of the high intensity prismatic (HIP) sheeting now specified very closely to see if they can extend the interval between sign replacement projects.
QuoteKentucky gets a heck of a lot longer than 17 years out of its guide signage.
Kentucky is also a different climate. Less snow and Nor'easters don't exist.
Quote from: roadman on April 05, 2012, 07:14:40 PM
The 93 shield on the pull-thru sign at Exit 27 northbound (northbound Zakim Bridge), which was NOT fabricated to MassHighway specifications, is a good example of a recently-installed sign that has problems.
The I-93 and US-1 shields on the two gantries located just as you come out of the tunnel were replaced a few months ago. The I-93 shield was illegible on both, the US-1 on the first one.
Quote from: SidS1045 on April 09, 2012, 11:03:16 PM
Quote from: roadman on April 05, 2012, 07:14:40 PM
The 93 shield on the pull-thru sign at Exit 27 northbound (northbound Zakim Bridge), which was NOT fabricated to MassHighway specifications, is a good example of a recently-installed sign that has problems.
The I-93 and US-1 shields on the two gantries located just as you come out of the tunnel were replaced a few months ago. The I-93 shield was illegible on both, the US-1 on the first one.
Thanks for the update. I also noticed those shields were (finally) replaced when I came across the Zakim Bridge this past Sunday night.
I will admit one thing, while i don't understand the overkill of some of the things MA does (have you ever seen so many recessed raised payment deliniators in a northeast state?) I will agree that compared to CT signage, You can read the signs in MA at night. For whatever reason, CT just isn't funding the signing projects. The big one going on on 84 from the NY Line to Newtown was way over due, that signage en-masse was getting close to celebrating it's 30th birthday.
Another planned project that is yet unfunded is replacing signage from exit 32 to exit 52 vic on I 84. It was put up in 1985, by the time the project gets underway those signs will be 30 years old. The signs on I 84 East of manchester are CA 1995. In CT that's "new" signage. By our standards those will likely be there until about 2025.
Quote from: wytout on April 10, 2012, 08:22:04 PMI will agree that compared to CT signage, You can read the signs in MA at night.
that's mainly because Conn jumped way too heavily on the 'button copy over retroreflective background' trend. Mass has that too, but not nearly as much. Button copy is intended to be used with non-reflective background.
Quote from: wytout on April 10, 2012, 08:22:04 PM
Another planned project that is yet unfunded is replacing signage from exit 32 to exit 52 vic on I 84. It was put up in 1985, by the time the project gets underway those signs will be 30 years old. The signs on I 84 East of manchester are CA 1995. In CT that's "new" signage. By our standards those will likely be there until about 2025.
I'm guessing signage on CT 25 is the oldest in the state... early 80s?
I-84, Exit 32 to 52 ... wouldn't say 1985. The I-84/I-91 interchange project wrapped up in the early 90s and the signs are pretty much from that era. Those around the 72 junction were replaced in the past few years. That takes us up to Exit 35. Those from there up to Hartford appear to be relatively the same vintage as those right at 91. Of course the ones at Exit 39A were put up in 1992.
I'd give second place would have to go to I-84 from Exit 57 to Exit 64. You can tell by the size of the route markers (though not the interstate ones anymore as most of them have been replaced). But look at Exit 64-65 EB / Exit 64-WB. This probably dates to the mid 1980s, when I-384 was connected to I-84, and the whole "frontage roads"-esque system went in.
Third place.... I-395 - mid 1980s, possibly tied with I-95 - Stratford. We'll most likely lose the I-95 section when the Moses Wheeler Bridge project wraps up. I did see I-395 signage mentioned in a long-range CDOT plan.
Fourth place.... to keep this post ON TOPIC, I'm saying I-91 from East Windsor, north to Enfield / MA state line. I'm giving them an installation date of late 1980s, as this was the first part of I-91 to be reconstructed, and I remember traveling north to VT in 1990 and seeing Phase III. Back in those days, Mass. still had an earlier generation of signage, where I recall much more pull-through signage, LEFT 2 LANES used instead of LEFT LANES, and a Northampton/Greenfield pullthrough on the Exit 13 gantry.
Quote from: agentsteel53 on April 10, 2012, 08:42:00 PM
Quote from: wytout on April 10, 2012, 08:22:04 PMI will agree that compared to CT signage, You can read the signs in MA at night.
that's mainly because Conn jumped way too heavily on the 'button copy over retroreflective background' trend. Mass has that too, but not nearly as much. Button copy is intended to be used with non-reflective background.
Except for numbers on scattered OH sign Interstate shields, button copy will soon be a thing of the past in Maasachusetts. The button copy signs on I-95/Southeast Expressway between Braintree and Boston will be replaced with new HIP signs by Fall of 2012, the remaining button copy signs at the MassPike Newton Corner and Newton Corner signs will be replaced with new HIP signs by late summer of 2012, and the remaining button copy signs on the MassPike extension between Weston and Boston are tenatively scheduled to be replaced by late 2015-early 2016.
The remaining Interstate shields with button copy will be replaced over the next eight years as signs are updated "segment by segment" under MassDOT's ongoing freeway sign replacement program.
So, get those photos while you can.
Quote from: roadman on April 11, 2012, 12:28:51 PM
Except for numbers on scattered OH sign Interstate shields, button copy will soon be a thing of the past in Maasachusetts. The button copy signs on I-95/Southeast Expressway between Braintree and Boston will be replaced with new HIP signs by Fall of 2012, the remaining button copy signs at the MassPike Newton Corner and Newton Corner signs will be replaced with new HIP signs by late summer of 2012, and the remaining button copy signs on the MassPike extension between Weston and Boston are tenatively scheduled to be replaced by late 2015-early 2016.
what about random button copy on non-freeway state highways?
As of April, 2008, there was a gantry on MA-138 southbound in maybe Canton or so. There's also some MDC button copy on Memorial Drive, though it might be down to one sign near the 2-3-16 junction. As far as I know, the button copy on the MA-2 freeway is gone, but what about side streets to it?
all of these signs I refer to are all caps Series DM button copy.
also, the MA-16 entrance to the turnpike has some very old button copy with rectangular shields on the side streets. Is that slated for replacement too?
Quote from: agentsteel53 on April 11, 2012, 12:57:47 PMthe MA-16 entrance to the turnpike has some very old button copy with rectangular shields on the side streets. Is that slated for replacement too?
Those signs date back to when the Turnpike Extension first opened in the early 1960s; though the shields were replaced once back in the early 80s IIRC.
Quote from: roadman on April 11, 2012, 12:28:51 PMThe button copy signs on I-95/Southeast Expressway between Braintree and Boston will be replaced with new HIP signs by Fall of 2012
I believe that you meant to say I-9
3/Southeast Expressway.
Quote from: shadyjay on April 10, 2012, 11:42:48 PMI'm guessing signage on CT 25 is the oldest in the state... early 80s?
Some of the signs along I-84 between Exits 22-25 likely date back to the early-to-mid 1980s as well.
Quote from: PHLBOS on April 11, 2012, 03:05:26 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on April 11, 2012, 12:57:47 PMthe MA-16 entrance to the turnpike has some very old button copy with rectangular shields on the side streets. Is that slated for replacement too?
Those signs date back to when the Turnpike Extension first opened in the early 1960s; though the shields were replaced once back in the early 80s IIRC.
what did the shields look like before that? rectangles with custom font? reflective or non-reflective?
Quote from: agentsteel53 on April 11, 2012, 12:57:47 PM
Quote from: roadman on April 11, 2012, 12:28:51 PM
Except for numbers on scattered OH sign Interstate shields, button copy will soon be a thing of the past in Maasachusetts. The button copy signs on I-95/Southeast Expressway between Braintree and Boston will be replaced with new HIP signs by Fall of 2012, the remaining button copy signs at the MassPike Newton Corner and Newton Corner signs will be replaced with new HIP signs by late summer of 2012, and the remaining button copy signs on the MassPike extension between Weston and Boston are tenatively scheduled to be replaced by late 2015-early 2016.
what about random button copy on non-freeway state highways?
As of April, 2008, there was a gantry on MA-138 southbound in maybe Canton or so. There's also some MDC button copy on Memorial Drive, though it might be down to one sign near the 2-3-16 junction. As far as I know, the button copy on the MA-2 freeway is gone, but what about side streets to it?
all of these signs I refer to are all caps Series DM button copy.
also, the MA-16 entrance to the turnpike has some very old button copy with rectangular shields on the side streets. Is that slated for replacement too?
There is an overhead gantry with two button copy BGSs in Worcester on the ramp from I-190 SB to I-290 EB, where the ramp to MA-70 splits off. It is original to when I-190 was built in the early 80s, and has been missed by all subsequent 190 and 290 sign replacement projects.
http://www.panoramio.com/photo_explorer#view=photo&position=745&with_photo_id=29658150&order=date_desc&user=520571
I assume you mean this sign gantry? :)
(NOTE: This is NOT my photo.)
Quote from: agentsteel53 on April 11, 2012, 03:29:26 PMwhat did the shields look like before that? rectangles with custom font? reflective or non-reflective?
If memory serves, the original shields were rectangular, biege/off-white (that turned tan/brown w/age & dirt) w/a black outline slightly offset from the edge. The font for the
16 numerals was actually FHWA standard. I can't remember whether the font was the standard width (Series D) or wider (Series F). Non-reflectorized.
Quote from: KEVIN_224 on April 12, 2012, 02:41:01 AM
http://www.panoramio.com/photo_explorer#view=photo&position=745&with_photo_id=29658150&order=date_desc&user=520571
I assume you mean this sign gantry? :)
(NOTE: This is NOT my photo.)
That's the one! :-)
Quote from: shadyjay on April 10, 2012, 11:42:48 PM
Quote from: wytout on April 10, 2012, 08:22:04 PM
Another planned project that is yet unfunded is replacing signage from exit 32 to exit 52 vic on I 84. It was put up in 1985, by the time the project gets underway those signs will be 30 years old. The signs on I 84 East of manchester are CA 1995. In CT that's "new" signage. By our standards those will likely be there until about 2025.
I'm guessing signage on CT 25 is the oldest in the state... early 80s?
I-84, Exit 32 to 52 ... wouldn't say 1985.
You might not say 1985, but the stenciled dating on the back lower right corner of those signs in the Exit 40's on the Aetna Viatuct all say "3 - 8 5"
Quote from: shadyjay on April 10, 2012, 11:42:48 PM
Fourth place.... to keep this post ON TOPIC, I'm saying I-91 from East Windsor, north to Enfield / MA state line. I'm giving them an installation date of late 1980s,
Regarding I-91 NB to Massachusetts:
This I agree with as I've stopped and read the yellow tags on the back.. they range NB from March 1987 to October 1987 at the MA border.
---
Not to go off topic as my point is regarding both 84 and I 91 in the greater hartford area up to MA.
Signage from I-84 Exit 58 Roberts st-64 Vernon center is NON button copy and does date from 1986 and 1987 per the stenciled date codes visible on the rears of some of the ground mounted signs.
Most of the ground mounted Entrance signage on the surface streets still have large sized shields right in manchester.
---
The bottom line is there is signage in greater hartford area that is surpassing the 25 year mark on a widespread basis, and a lot of it is actually becoming a safety issues, as Agentsteel pointed out, because so much of it is Button Copy on Retro sheeting.
(While this question isn't for I-91 itself, I figure it's close enough to be included here...)
Can anybody guess as to how old these Massachusetts signs could be?
http://g.co/maps/5qh4p
This is along MA Route 2 East in Greenfield, MA, about 1/3 mile east from Exit 27 of I-91, at the exit for US Route 5/MA Route 10.
Quote from: KEVIN_224 on May 05, 2012, 09:00:44 PM
(While this question isn't for I-91 itself, I figure it's close enough to be included here...)
Can anybody guess as to how old these Massachusetts signs could be?
http://g.co/maps/5qh4p
This is along MA Route 2 East in Greenfield, MA, about 1/3 mile east from Exit 27 of I-91, at the exit for US Route 5/MA Route 10.
What will be interesting is to see how many more I-91 sign replacements go by before the signs in question are replaced! :P Seriously, it's strange how early-to-mid 90s vintage signs are deemed too old to continue standing, while ones that are much, much, much older have never seen replacement.
Quote from: PurdueBill on May 06, 2012, 03:18:14 PM
What will be interesting is to see how many more I-91 sign replacements go by before the signs in question are replaced! :P Seriously, it's strange how early-to-mid 90s vintage signs are deemed too old to continue standing, while ones that are much, much, much older have never seen replacement.
Could this be a comment on the quality of the 1990s era signs? MassDOT sign policy often seems to be not to replace any sign in good to semi-good condition (no matter how dated or inaccurate the information is) to save money.
Quote from: bob7374 on May 06, 2012, 09:14:53 PM
Quote from: PurdueBill on May 06, 2012, 03:18:14 PM
What will be interesting is to see how many more I-91 sign replacements go by before the signs in question are replaced! :P Seriously, it's strange how early-to-mid 90s vintage signs are deemed too old to continue standing, while ones that are much, much, much older have never seen replacement.
Could this be a comment on the quality of the 1990s era signs? MassDOT sign policy often seems to be not to replace any sign in good to semi-good condition (no matter how dated or inaccurate the information is) to save money.
Au contraire, the 90s signs (usually with button copy in I-shields) are in pretty good shape and quite visible, even at night, relative to many signs that have been left in place a lot longer, like those ones on Route 2 at 5/10.
Quote from: KEVIN_224 on May 05, 2012, 09:00:44 PMCan anybody guess as to how old these Massachusetts signs could be?
http://g.co/maps/5qh4p
This is along MA Route 2 East in Greenfield, MA, about 1/3 mile east from Exit 27 of I-91, at the exit for US Route 5/MA Route 10.
I am going to take a
guess that those signs date back to the mid-to-late 1960s.
Quote from: PHLBOS on May 08, 2012, 07:14:36 PM
I am going to take a guess that those signs date back to the mid-to-late 1960s.
that's a '70 spec US route shield, but all-caps legend and an elongated two-digit state route marker. so I'd say early or mid-1970s.
Quote from: bob7374 on May 06, 2012, 09:14:53 PM
Quote from: PurdueBill on May 06, 2012, 03:18:14 PM
What will be interesting is to see how many more I-91 sign replacements go by before the signs in question are replaced! :P Seriously, it's strange how early-to-mid 90s vintage signs are deemed too old to continue standing, while ones that are much, much, much older have never seen replacement.
Could this be a comment on the quality of the 1990s era signs? MassDOT sign policy often seems to be not to replace any sign in good to semi-good condition (no matter how dated or inaccurate the information is) to save money.
Those signs and structure, which according to my information (old MassDPW signing plans) are indeed from the mid-1970s, are planned to be replaced under the I-91 West Springfield to Bernardston sign replacement project. This project is at the 75% design stage, and is tenatively scheduled to be advertised for bids (pending funding) by early 2013.
Quote from: agentsteel53 on May 08, 2012, 07:22:51 PM
Quote from: PHLBOS on May 08, 2012, 07:14:36 PM
I am going to take a guess that those signs date back to the mid-to-late 1960s.
that's a '70 spec US route shield, but all-caps legend and an elongated two-digit state route marker. so I'd say early or mid-1970s.
Looking at that pic again, it looks like those shields are
not the original ones. The original ones were more likely smaller, rectangular, more beige in color and had outlines. The DPW ditched the
all-CAPS for its control destinations on its big, freeway BGS signs before the early 70s.
Travelled I-91 a few days ago and noticed new small signs near the overhead assemblies in Springfield. These signs have a contract number on them, similar to the ones I've seen pictures of on I-93 north of Boston. They denote where crews will install foundations for new assemblies. Also visible were some stakes and flagging, most likely from Dig Safe.
Quote from: shadyjay on December 29, 2012, 09:12:52 AM
Travelled I-91 a few days ago and noticed new small signs near the overhead assemblies in Springfield. These signs have a contract number on them, similar to the ones I've seen pictures of on I-93 north of Boston. They denote where crews will install foundations for new assemblies. Also visible were some stakes and flagging, most likely from Dig Safe.
MassDOT signing contracts denote new overhead supports as OD (overhead directional) XX - the numbers start at one end of the project and are (mostly) sequential (i.e. OD-1, OD-2, OD-3, etc).
The principal purpose of the markers is so staff from MassDOT and conservation commissions in the local communities within the project limits can identify if the support installation will impact wetland resource areas (including a 100 foot "buffer" zone outside the actual wetlands). Placement of these markers has been a recent requirement on MassDOT sign projects.
The staking is done by the contractor, under the supervision of the MassDOT resident engineer. And you are correct that both the markers and staking are used as reference points by DigSafe.
Finally looked at the project description from the MassDOT Project website while checking the progress on this contract, it's 28% complete. There appears to be a least a little error in geography here:
"This project entails the replacement of guide and traffic signs on Interstate Route 91. The replacements will be made from the Massachusetts/Rhode Island border in Longmeadow northerly to the US Route 5 interchange (Exits 13A-B) in West Springfield, including applicable signing on intersecting secondary roadways. Most of the signs are about 15 years old and reaching the end of their service life."
I took the trouble to google maps Longmeadow, to confirm that indeed the error is Connecticut vs. Rhode Island... and I discovered that the state border there is not perfectly east-west. here I had thought the only break in the straightness of the MA/CT border was the "notch" immediately to the west, but there is also this subtle dip there.
anyone know how that came about? poor 18th century surveying?
Quote from: agentsteel53 on March 12, 2013, 03:53:37 PM
I took the trouble to google maps Longmeadow, to confirm that indeed the error is Connecticut vs. Rhode Island... and I discovered that the state border there is not perfectly east-west. here I had thought the only break in the straightness of the MA/CT border was the "notch" immediately to the west, but there is also this subtle dip there.
anyone know how that came about? poor 18th century surveying?
There are very few straight lines in northeastern boundaries.
Quote from: Steve on March 12, 2013, 07:29:09 PM
Quote from: agentsteel53 on March 12, 2013, 03:53:37 PM
I took the trouble to google maps Longmeadow, to confirm that indeed the error is Connecticut vs. Rhode Island... and I discovered that the state border there is not perfectly east-west. here I had thought the only break in the straightness of the MA/CT border was the "notch" immediately to the west, but there is also this subtle dip there.
anyone know how that came about? poor 18th century surveying?
There are very few straight lines in northeastern boundaries.
Even Colorado's borders (ignoring curvature of earth) are not rectangular (http://geology.utah.gov/surveynotes/gladasked/gladkink.htm).
If you look at a reasonably detailed state map of Massachusetts, you will see a small notch in the Connecticut/Massachusetts border that covers about half of Longmeadow. It's not as pronounced as the 'notch' in Soutwick, but it's more than a few feet.
Project Update:
Drove all of I-91 in Massachusetts yesterday. I'd say about 90% of the route markers and regulatory signs have been replaced from the CT/MA border to Exit 13. There are still a few old ones NB between the border and Exit 2 that still need replacement, including the "Right Lane Ends" signs.
No new overheads installed yet, though small orange/black markers are installed where new assemblies will go, similar to what was reported on I-93. Didn't see markers for the NB overhead at Exit 6 (Springfield Center).... this was just replaced about a year ago.
A few new ground assemblies, mostly at the onramps from Route 5 to I-91 at Exit 13. Also a new "NEXT EXIT 8" ground mounted sign mounted right next to the old overhead one SB after the I-391 merge.
Also of note, the final sign for Exit 25, SB, which was damaged a few years ago (they left a single post and no temporary sign), has finally been replaced, with the new standard MassDOT sign (full height exit tab, separated from the sign with a border) and an arrow at the bottom of the sign vs on the right side.
Oh yeah, they appear to be doing work AGAIN (this time pavement work) between Holyoke and Northampton. This is the stretch that saw bridge deck repairs for about 10 years.
My next trip down that way will most likely be in mid July so I'll update again then.
The I-91 sign contractor has apparently begun the next phase of work (foundations for overhead sign supports?) that requires lane closures:
http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2013/05/heavy_slow_traffic_on_i-91_sou.html
Project Update as of 12/22:
Drove I-91 SB this afternoon, through some heavy fog from VT down to Deerfield. Only observed new overhead signs on the Springfield onramps. They are starting to erect sign supports on the far south end of the project, near the CT state line. A couple of new secondary ground mounted signs are starting to be seen, such as a new sign advertising Springfield area hospitals, and a new sign for Bradley Airport between Exit 1 and the state line. In the rear view NB, I did observe a few new overheads in the same vicinity.
I'll be traveling back north on 12/26 and will take note of what I see in that direction.
Quote from: shadyjay on December 22, 2013, 07:47:54 PM
Project Update as of 12/22:
Drove I-91 SB this afternoon, through some heavy fog from VT down to Deerfield. Only observed new overhead signs on the Springfield onramps. They are starting to erect sign supports on the far south end of the project, near the CT state line. A couple of new secondary ground mounted signs are starting to be seen, such as a new sign advertising Springfield area hospitals, and a new sign for Bradley Airport between Exit 1 and the state line. In the rear view NB, I did observe a few new overheads in the same vicinity.
I'll be traveling back north on 12/26 and will take note of what I see in that direction.
if you could snap some photos as well that would be great!
I'll see what I can do...
Alright... here's what I got....
All northbound between CT state line and the Exit 1 overpass:
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-KUBmqc-IWs4/UryO0ZJ8V4I/AAAAAAAATYY/dnkvWxHjG5g/s720/IMG_1343.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dEGtPrRzXEw/UryO0I1GZZI/AAAAAAAATYg/hSGrVRfo0p4/s720/IMG_1344.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3HCAkWxxmDA/UryO0kxQ_DI/AAAAAAAATYc/uGaymeDWFGo/s720/IMG_1345.JPG)
Outside of this area, I observed no other assemblies or starts of assemblies within project limits. The Exit 3 offramp and the onramp from I-291 have new assemblies/signage but didn't get shots of them. I was driving, after all, and it was snowing.
Judging by these signs, I'd guess that all notices to the right lane ending will be moved to ground-based signage. I'm also guessing the assembly which says "SPRINGFIELD-NEXT 7 EXITS ..... RIGHT LANE ENDS 1 MILE" will also go, replaced with respective ground signage.
Hopefully, they'll also correct that W3-5 overlay on the new overhead "Expect Stopped Or Slowed Traffic Ahead" sign.
From perusing the MassDOT project advertisement site today, it appears the contract (607470) to replace the signs along I-91 from West Springfield to Berndardston is to be let on April 23. Would 2016 be a reasonable end date? If so, what would be a projected date for new milepost based exit numbers to appear on I-91?
Quote from: roadman on December 27, 2013, 12:26:07 PM
Hopefully, they'll also correct that W3-5 overlay on the new overhead "Expect Stopped Or Slowed Traffic Ahead" sign.
First thing I noticed.
Quote from: bob7374 on February 17, 2014, 02:41:31 PM
From perusing the MassDOT project advertisement site today, it appears the contract (607470) to replace the signs along I-91 from West Springfield to Berndardston is to be let on April 23. Would 2016 be a reasonable end date? If so, what would be a projected date for new milepost based exit numbers to appear on I-91?
My guess it that the contract end date and the projected date for milepost based exit numbers are not related, although you would like to think they should be.
Quote from: spooky on February 17, 2014, 04:18:04 PM
Quote from: roadman on December 27, 2013, 12:26:07 PM
Hopefully, they'll also correct that W3-5 overlay on the new overhead "Expect Stopped Or Slowed Traffic Ahead" sign.
First thing I noticed.
Quote from: bob7374 on February 17, 2014, 02:41:31 PM
From perusing the MassDOT project advertisement site today, it appears the contract (607470) to replace the signs along I-91 from West Springfield to Berndardston is to be let on April 23. Would 2016 be a reasonable end date? If so, what would be a projected date for new milepost based exit numbers to appear on I-91?
My guess it that the contract end date and the projected date for milepost based exit numbers are not related, although you would like to think they should be.
Although the I-91 contract documents haven't yet been released to bidders, my best guess is that the project duration should be between 15 and 18 months from issuance of notice to proceed.
As for the exit numbering changes, it is my understanding that Phase I of the conversion (Western/Southern Mass.) which should include I-91, is now scheduled to begin in early 2016. MassDOT's intent is to convert exit numbers on a route by route basis, and will begin with routes where sign updates have been completed in the past 10 to 12 years.
Quote from: roadman on February 19, 2014, 12:55:20 PM
Quote from: bob7374 on February 17, 2014, 02:41:31 PM
From perusing the MassDOT project advertisement site today, it appears the contract (607470) to replace the signs along I-91 from West Springfield to Berndardston is to be let on April 23. Would 2016 be a reasonable end date? If so, what would be a projected date for new milepost based exit numbers to appear on I-91?
Although the I-91 contract documents haven't yet been released to bidders, my best guess is that the project duration should be between 15 and 18 months from issuance of notice to proceed.
As for the exit numbering changes, it is my understanding that Phase I of the conversion (Western/Southern Mass.) which should include I-91, is now scheduled to begin in early 2016. MassDOT's intent is to convert exit numbers on a route by route basis, and will begin with routes where sign updates have been completed in the past 10 to 12 years.
Given the 10-12 year limit and the 2016 time frame, for the western portion of MA, along with I-91, I would expect I-84 to be in the first group along with I-291 (if there are plans to change exit numbers on short distance routes) and perhaps I-395 and MA 146, if Worcester is considered west. I-391 (again if there are plans to convert short routes) would be out since the latest signs were put up in 2002. As for southern routes, I-195 should be completely updated by that time while both MA 146 and MA 25 have had their signage updated within the past 5 years or so. Would US 6 would make the cut? Would MA 3 be included as a southeastern route?
does the federal mandate apply to MA routes? I would think priority would be to complete all interstate routes first?
Quote from: bob7374 on February 21, 2014, 10:24:37 PM
Quote from: roadman on February 19, 2014, 12:55:20 PM
Quote from: bob7374 on February 17, 2014, 02:41:31 PM
From perusing the MassDOT project advertisement site today, it appears the contract (607470) to replace the signs along I-91 from West Springfield to Berndardston is to be let on April 23. Would 2016 be a reasonable end date? If so, what would be a projected date for new milepost based exit numbers to appear on I-91?
Although the I-91 contract documents haven't yet been released to bidders, my best guess is that the project duration should be between 15 and 18 months from issuance of notice to proceed.
As for the exit numbering changes, it is my understanding that Phase I of the conversion (Western/Southern Mass.) which should include I-91, is now scheduled to begin in early 2016. MassDOT's intent is to convert exit numbers on a route by route basis, and will begin with routes where sign updates have been completed in the past 10 to 12 years.
Given the 10-12 year limit and the 2016 time frame, for the western portion of MA, along with I-91, I would expect I-84 to be in the first group along with I-291 (if there are plans to change exit numbers on short distance routes) and perhaps I-395 and MA 146, if Worcester is considered west. I-391 (again if there are plans to convert short routes) would be out since the latest signs were put up in 2002. As for southern routes, I-195 should be completely updated by that time while both MA 146 and MA 25 have had their signage updated within the past 5 years or so. Would US 6 would make the cut? Would MA 3 be included as a southeastern route?
MassDOT's plan is to convert all freeways, including both "short distance" routes and those roads that are not Interstate routes, that presently have exit numbers to milepost-based exit numbers. This would include Route 3 and Route 6.
FYI, the Massachusetts House has filed legislation to require MassDOT to convert to mileage-based exit numbers, except that the legislation seems to require that the work be done in one fell swoop, like Pennsylvania did. https://malegislature.gov/Bills/188/House/H3103
Quote from: roadman on February 24, 2014, 10:11:38 AMMassDOT's plan is to convert all freeways, including both "short distance" routes and those roads that are not Interstate routes, that presently have exit numbers to milepost-based exit numbers. This would include Route 3 and Route 6.
The interchange number coversion along the Mid-Cape Highway/US 6 should prove interesting; the current Exits 1A-B-C will likely become Exits 55A-B-C.
Off-topic side bar: looking at GSV; it appears that MA 3's Mile Marker 0 is at the northern base of the Sagamore Bridge rather than its interchange w/US 6 (when did the old rotary go away?).
North 3 Mile 0 via US 6 West (http://goo.gl/maps/LdKcf)
South 3 Mile 0 via US 6 East (http://goo.gl/maps/5jpPB)
Quote from: PHLBOS on February 24, 2014, 12:36:53 PM
Quote from: roadman on February 24, 2014, 10:11:38 AMMassDOT's plan is to convert all freeways, including both "short distance" routes and those roads that are not Interstate routes, that presently have exit numbers to milepost-based exit numbers. This would include Route 3 and Route 6.
The interchange number coversion along the Mid-Cape Highway/US 6 should prove interesting; the current Exits 1A-B-C will likely become Exits 55A-B-C.
Off-topic side bar: looking at GSV; it appears that MA 3's Mile Marker 0 is at the northern base of the Sagamore Bridge rather than its interchange w/US 6 (when did the old rotary go away?).
North 3 Mile 0 via US 6 West (http://goo.gl/maps/LdKcf)
South 3 Mile 0 via US 6 East (http://goo.gl/maps/5jpPB)
That is indeed an interesting sidebar, considering the BEGIN 3 assemblies after US 6 leaves.
I bet it's there because US 6 is inventoried eastbound, and that's about where US 6 eastbound joins the freeway.
I saw a few new posts up on I-91 today in Springfield, MA. They're the side supports for eventual new gantries which would span a given side of the highway. I also noticed a new sign over I-91 south in Springfield. I believe it was the exit for I-291/US 20 East. This sign had "TO I-90" and the "MASS PIKE" hat logo square on it. It looked like MASS_CITIZEN's avatar.
MassDOT's site is reporting 80% complete on the Longmeadow-W. Springfield contract. Anyone have any updates? There's a slight possibility that I will make it down that far south for Easter, but no guarentees on whether it will be a road or rail trip.
Just came through Springfield from VT on Amtrak and from what I could see from the train (between Exits 8 & 1), the project definitely doesn't look 80% complete. A few new overheads, a few others with only supports - no "over the lane" gantries yet, and some others not even touched. If I can get some pics on the return trip on Monday I will, but no guarentees, from the windows of a train.
Did notice NB Exit 5, which was simply signed "Broad St" is now signed "Broad St / Main St".
I second shadyjay's comments on the I-91 progress. Was last through Downtown Springfield in the middle of March returning from a memorial service in Agawam, and there appeared to be very little progress with even sign support foundations at that time. Not sure about north of the Springfield Viaduct, as I didn't make it up that far.
I will be going to Springfield for a meeting in a couple of weeks, so I'll check further on the progress at that point and report back here.
A blast from the past on I-91 North... came across the pic of Exit 28, taken in 1984, courtesy the NERAIL Photo Archive (photos.nerail.org):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimagestorage.nerail.org%2Fphotos%2F2014%2F05%2F09%2F2014050913193526026.jpg&hash=98b1a82201f6d94409d808b49f4247f8cdd41c97)
I'm guessing this is the "first generation" of signage that was installed on I-91 in this area. The present sign is mounted on a newer gantry and is nearly identical but has aligned exit tabs and "1/4 mile" replaces "NEXT RIGHT" on the Exit 28B panel. I believe the "second generation" was installed sometime in the early 90s.
@shadyjay Thanks for sharing the photo. As a road sign guy and a railfan, I especially appreciate it.
The current overhead sign and structure at this location were installed as part of the 1993 Longmeadow to Bernardston I-91 sign replacement project. As I recall, the sign support replaced at that time was first generation (late 1960s), but the sign panels replaced at that time were early to mid-1970s vintage - one clue is the "code" information in the lower left hand corner of the sign faces. While I can't make out the legends, it is clearly a much simpler format than MassHighway/MassDOT has used on overhead signs since the late 1980s.
So this isn't the original generation of signage for I-91 at this point? If that's the case, then the first set of signage only lasted some 10 years before replacement. Must've been button copy.
And myself also being a railfan as well as a "road enthusiast", I look forward to Amtrak returning to the line paralleling I-91 in Mass north of Springfield. Maybe someone will recreate this scene with a passenger train over that bridge, something which hasn't occured since 1987.
http://goo.gl/maps/ZeVi6
This is the current gantry and signs for that Bernardston exit. I've also noticed that it's quite a bit further south than the gantry was in 1984.
Quote from: shadyjay on May 09, 2014, 09:21:04 PM
So this isn't the original generation of signage for I-91 at this point? If that's the case, then the first set of signage only lasted some 10 years before replacement. Must've been button copy.
I'll have to do some digging to verify this, but I suspect the original signing at this location was the older MassDPW standard ground-mounted button copy on painted plywood BGS signs.
QuoteAnd myself also being a railfan as well as a "road enthusiast", I look forward to Amtrak returning to the line paralleling I-91 in Mass north of Springfield. Maybe someone will recreate this scene with a passenger train over that bridge, something which hasn't occured since 1987.
Depending upon how soon Amtrak service begins, you may wind up getting the next generation of signs and supports to be installed in this location in your shot. Bids for re-signing the upper end of I-91 (West Springfield to Bernardston) are scheduled to be opened in late June.
It appears that most of the new overhead signs are up at this point. The place where there is the most old signs remaining is near the 291 interchange. However, I wonder if those signs are possibly planned to be updated during the rehabilitation of the elevated portions of 91 through there.
Quote from: DrSmith on May 26, 2014, 04:20:09 PM
It appears that most of the new overhead signs are up at this point. The place where there is the most old signs remaining is near the 291 interchange. However, I wonder if those signs are possibly planned to be updated during the rehabilitation of the elevated portions of 91 through there.
Just last week, I got word from one of my sources that the new signs and structures for the Springfield Viaduct portion of the Longmeadow to West Springfield I-91 sign project have been fabricated and delivered, but that they will be put into storage and not installed until completion of the viaduct rehab project.
Quote from: roadman on December 27, 2013, 12:26:07 PM
Hopefully, they'll also correct that W3-5 overlay on the new overhead "Expect Stopped Or Slowed Traffic Ahead" sign.
They did.... the SL sign is now standard black on white. Everything else is black on yellow.
Drove I-91 SB this evening through all of Mass. Seems like no new signs are being installed on the viaduct, as previously noted. Almost all new signage points north and south. What's interesting is the new SB sign advertising CT Exit 49 has been changed from "5 / Enfield Street / Connecticut" to "5 / Enfield CT / Thompsonville CT".
Took a few pics... they didn't come out the best since I was driving, but I'll post what I got in a little while.
Will be returning NB on Sunday so hopefully I'll get some better shots in that direction.
Here's a few shots from Friday evening:
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QT6fSedRC4Y/U5xPIgpK67I/AAAAAAAATeA/JPnpkOgakgc/s640/IMG_1689.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B9-j8QQqw5E/U5xPKgn4CUI/AAAAAAAATeM/Eln_IhWNVk4/s640/IMG_1695.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-KJBjCQljqLM/U5xPK06FVuI/AAAAAAAATeQ/YhmZLjG4Yw8/s640/IMG_1696.JPG)
Rest of the shots at:
https://picasaweb.google.com/108118189767835080687/I91SignReplacementInMass
Weather's beautiful for my NB travel today so I'll hopefully get some shots in that direction and get 'em online tonight, if not, tomorrow.
A couple of the NB highlights, with the full album located at: https://picasaweb.google.com/108118189767835080687/I91SignReplacementInMass#
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P0Hun38WOvI/U55PW-w5GjI/AAAAAAAATgg/jUi6PXo1Gko/s912/IMG_1704.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-HBd6BzFUuM0/U55P36YMuZI/AAAAAAAAThg/nf_R9zAGgr8/s800/IMG_1711.JPG)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-14WdPXtQmXs/U55QKJmPqxI/AAAAAAAAThw/gyK-2qJvJFo/s800/IMG_1714.JPG)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fDOytHjv4FA/U55QhoJOqNI/AAAAAAAATiQ/7SwzwAYPEgw/s800/IMG_1719.JPG)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3vM83WcPwog/U55QsEzmSwI/AAAAAAAATiY/5P-vAi48JOU/s912/IMG_1721.JPG)
Looks like the project is substantially complete, save for the viaduct signage.
Also interesting to note, all "TRUCKS PROHIBITED FROM LEFT LANE" signs are gone, replaced with the new style symbols: a truck symbol with a line through it, with a LEFT LANE sign below. The TRUCK CROSSING sign near the CT/MA border is also now a symbol of a fire truck.
Have they installed Once I clicked on the link, I saw they have installed the new diagrammatic signs on I-91 northbound in advance of I-391 yet?. My bad for not fully reading the post first.
Edited to reflect ShadyJay's response.
Quote from: shadyjay on June 17, 2014, 09:13:52 PM
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3vM83WcPwog/U55QsEzmSwI/AAAAAAAATiY/5P-vAi48JOU/s912/IMG_1721.JPG)
Is that style of pointing normally UP arrows DOWN a MassDOT practice? I haven't seen it in many other places than Massachusetts. I personally think that the arrow pointing upwards in some direction (either up-left or up-right) is better than pointing it downwards like shown.
Quote from: Zeffy on June 18, 2014, 11:53:24 AM
Is that style of pointing normally UP arrows DOWN a MassDOT practice? I haven't seen it in many other places than Massachusetts. I personally think that the arrow pointing upwards in some direction (either up-left or up-right) is better than pointing it downwards like shown.
Use of downward slanted lane assignment arrows on certain BGSes has been a Massachusetts standard practice since the late 1980s. The intent of this treatment was to emphasize that the roadway or ramp curves immediately after the sign, and to use downward slanted arrows at such locations for consistency with other lane assignment signs. In the past, one of the reasons FHWA had traditionally been against such downward placement of arrows was because agencies would typically use Type C down arrows mounted at an angle - which are barely discernible as such at any distance, instead of the "inverted" Type A arrows that Massachusetts uses.
And yes, present MUTCD requirements regarding arrows on guide signs are now much stricter than they were, even compared to the 2003 edition. However, note that the I-91 project was designed and approved before Massachusetts officially adopted the 2009 MUTCD. Nevertheless, it is likely the MassDOT may be changing its policy in this regard on future projects.
Quote from: roadman on June 18, 2014, 11:14:27 AM
Have they installed the new diagrammatic signs on I-91 northbound in advance of I-391 yet?
Yup, if you click the link at the top of my last post, you'll see two advance diagrammatics for I-391, for 1 mile and 1/2 mile. The 2 mile has not been replaced yet since its on the viaduct portion at I-291.
Quote from: shadyjay on June 18, 2014, 04:24:56 PM
Quote from: roadman on June 18, 2014, 11:14:27 AM
Have they installed the new diagrammatic signs on I-91 northbound in advance of I-391 yet?
Yup, if you click the link at the top of my last post, you'll see two advance diagrammatics for I-391, for 1 mile and 1/2 mile. The 2 mile has not been replaced yet since its on the viaduct portion at I-291.
Thanks. Didn't notice the link at first - have revised my previous post. And I now agree, this project does appear to be substantially complete - except for the signs and structures on the viaduct, which will now be installed as part of the rehab work.
Now if it was CT, the signs would be installed on the present roadway/structure, then replaced again when the viaduct is rebuilt/replaced/whatever.
But wait... maybe not. The last time CDOT tried to hold off on replacing signs thinking a construction project was right on the heels of the signage contracts, the project was aborted, and the older signs remain. (Merritt Parkway in CT, Exits 39-40).
Just came back from a weekend in CT, taking I-91 in its entirety through Mass. No changes that I noticed since my last trip through there in June. Also, no evidence of any work yet on the West Springfield to Bernardston project. I looked and didn't notice any orange reference markers where BGSs would be installed. Guess its still too early in the project.
In other I-91 news.... the Deerfield River project (between Exits 25 and 26) is curious. It looks like they've built a new 2-lane bridge directly adjacent to the NB lanes (NB/SB are separated by a wide variable median through here). Temporary crossovers show that the first move will be routing SB traffic onto the new bridge. But what is curious is that the new bridge constructed looks pretty permanent. Is this going to be the new NB bridge, and the old NB bridge done away with? The location of the new bridge, abutting against the NB lanes of the existing bridge, leads me to believe this. No drastic lane shifts would be required to permanently reroute NB traffic over this new bridge.
Endless Holyoke bridge repairs are continuing, this time between Exits 14 and 17, complete with a work zone in the middle and the two or three lanes shifting around it. Also the NB bridge at Exit 18 is being worked on as well. No work SB at this location. It seems like it took 5+ years to repair the bridges between Exits 17 & 18 (the Mt Tom "no exit zone). Hopefully this new work won't take as long.
Not much else to report.
@shadyjay As the contractor has only recently been given notice to proceed on the West Springfield to Bernardston job, they need to submit sign face and structural drawings for the BGS signs and support structures. So, I wouldn't expect to see any major work on this project beginning until about mid-Fall of this year.
Quote from: roadman on July 21, 2014, 09:20:56 AM
@shadyjay As the contractor has only recently been given notice to proceed on the West Springfield to Bernardston job, they need to submit sign face and structural drawings for the BGS signs and support structures. So, I wouldn't expect to see any major work on this project beginning until about mid-Fall of this year.
Figured something like that but wasn't sure. Have to keep my eyes open just in case...
Where does the Exit 14 connector to the MassPike fall in terms of the signing contracts? Was it part of the Springfield contract, or will it be part of the next contract that goes up to the VT border? I saw a few new signs on this stretch mixed in with the mid-90s vintage and was confused whether they were just spot replacements or scheduled replacements.
Quote from: southshore720 on October 13, 2014, 10:25:49 PM
Where does the Exit 14 connector to the MassPike fall in terms of the signing contracts? Was it part of the Springfield contract, or will it be part of the next contract that goes up to the VT border? I saw a few new signs on this stretch mixed in with the mid-90s vintage and was confused whether they were just spot replacements or scheduled replacements.
The overhead signs on the 'outbound' connector at the 'split' to I-91 north and I-91 south are to be replaced under the I-91 West Springfield to Bernardston contract. Most of the remaining overhead and ground-mounted signs are being replaced as part of the current MassPike connector widening/safety improvement project. The remaining signs at the US 5 end of the connector will be replaced as part of the West Stockbridge to Auburn I-90 sign replacement project scheduled to begin in 2015.
Update 4/21/2015:
Still no sign of any work on sign replacement from Bernardston down to West Springfield. Though when I came through it was dark but didn't see any "little orange markers" for new overhead foundation locations, or anything else.
Exit 27-SB to MA 2 East is closed because they're working on the bridge carrying the ramp over I-91 NB.
Deerfield Bridge construction continues. SB traffic continues to use the new NB bridge while the SB bridge is constructed.
The Holyoke bridge project "appears" to be substantially complete, at least SB. No lane shifts. There was some night work with lane closures taking place, but it looked more like an inspection type thing, vs an actual construction project.
I did notice one new assembly, the final assembly for the I-291 exit. I had assumed this wasn't replaced because it was in the viaduct zone, but I guess that wasn't the case. The new assembly features the Exit 8 (I-291) exit sign, plus two advance signs for Exit 7 (Hall of Fame Ave) and Exit 6 (Union St). No pullthroughs for I-91 South on this sign... they appear on the previous assembly only.
I'll be heading back north on Friday in the daylight and will report on any changes.
Finally some news to report:
Various foundations for new overheads observed from Greenfield south to Northampton. New guardrails also installed to shield the foundations from the edge of the roadway. Some foundations complete, others still waiting for concrete to be poured.
No new signs in place yet.
Update 9/25:
Drove I-91 through Mass on Friday night. Little to no additional progress on the signing project from Bernardston down to West Springfield. It was dark so I couldn't tell if any more foundations had been poured. No gantries up, at least SB. It was dark so I couldn't tell NB. Only new signs were in Northampton and Greenfield for the railroad stations there. The signs are interesting... top had "EXIT ___", then the name of the railroad station (Greenfield Oliver Transp Center or Northampton Train Station), then a solid line, then "AMTRAK" then the exit number at the bottom. I'm guessing the new mile-based exit number will be placed at the upper "EXIT____" line. Not sure why they felt the need to put the present exit at the bottom... seems to me a simple overlay for the upper "EXIT" would've sufficed.
Not sure if I'm returning on I-91 NB on Sunday... I may divert to return to VT via Worcester and Lowell so I can get shots of the new signage on I-395 in CT. Depends what time I get on the road on Sunday.
SB I-91 Exit 20 has reopened - it was closed for bridge work. Now MassDOT is working on the mainline bridges SB from Exit 20 down to Exit 18 in Northampton.
Viaduct work in Springfield has begun. New speed limit signs up. Crews had I-91 down to one lane when I came through.
Haven't been following this thread closely, but I just noticed a single (overhead) concrete sign footing in front of one of the ground-mounted advance guide signs for Exit 18 going northbound, a confirmation of the mention a couple of posts up FWIW.
Yup, nothing but new foundations SB. I ended up returning from CT to VT via I-395-I-290-I-495-US3-Everett-I-89 instead on I-91 so I couldn't get any daytime updates this go-around, but got tons of photos, mostly in CT and NH. (see link in signature below). Not sure if I'm going to get a chance to get an update this year. Also I found it strange on the MassDOT site, I couldn't find any listing whatsoever for this project so I can't check the status of it (ie- % completion). It's still got a ways to go, regardless. No new regulatory signs up yet. Just the two signs for the new railroad stations in Northampton and Greenfield.
Quote from: shadyjay on October 06, 2015, 04:48:02 PM
Yup, nothing but new foundations SB. I ended up returning from CT to VT via I-395-I-290-I-495-US3-Everett-I-89 instead on I-91 so I couldn't get any daytime updates this go-around, but got tons of photos, mostly in CT and NH. (see link in signature below). Not sure if I'm going to get a chance to get an update this year. Also I found it strange on the MassDOT site, I couldn't find any listing whatsoever for this project so I can't check the status of it (ie- % completion). It's still got a ways to go, regardless. No new regulatory signs up yet. Just the two signs for the new railroad stations in Northampton and Greenfield.
I was able to find the project listing on the MassDOT site by looking up everything under construction in District 2. The entry says the project is only 2% complete. There's no date listed though for when the information was posted. Somehow, I think the indicated time of Spring 2016 for the end of the project is a little optimistic.
Quote from: bob7374 on October 06, 2015, 11:16:56 PM
Quote from: shadyjay on October 06, 2015, 04:48:02 PM
Yup, nothing but new foundations SB. I ended up returning from CT to VT via I-395-I-290-I-495-US3-Everett-I-89 instead on I-91 so I couldn't get any daytime updates this go-around, but got tons of photos, mostly in CT and NH. (see link in signature below). Not sure if I'm going to get a chance to get an update this year. Also I found it strange on the MassDOT site, I couldn't find any listing whatsoever for this project so I can't check the status of it (ie- % completion). It's still got a ways to go, regardless. No new regulatory signs up yet. Just the two signs for the new railroad stations in Northampton and Greenfield.
I was able to find the project listing on the MassDOT site by looking up everything under construction in District 2. The entry says the project is only 2% complete. There's no date listed though for when the information was posted. Somehow, I think the indicated time of Spring 2016 for the end of the project is a little optimistic.
The critical path item for a project like this one is installing the foundations for the overhead and larger ground-mount signs, which appears to be well underway and should be completed before the ground freezes. Once that work is completed, installation of the actual support posts and structures, and hanging of signs, is not weather-dependent, provided we don't have another severe winter for snowfall (knocks wood).
Came south on I-91 this morning. It appears all foundations to support the new overheads are in place. No supports yet though.
Also, the new SB Deerfield River Bridge is now open between Exits 25 & 26. I'm assuming this switch happened pretty recently as the median was recently regarded where the crossovers were, and NB traffic is still using the old bridge. MassDOT built the new NB bridge here, then shifted SB traffic to it while the SB bridge was replaced. NB traffic will eventually use the new bridge once the approaches to it are paved. Then I'm guessing MassDOT will demolish the old NB bridge. Doing the project this way allowed MassDOT to maintain 2 lanes of traffic in each direction rather than resort to single-laning/rebuilding half at a time.
The Springfield Viaduct project didn't cause me any delays, though it was the smoothest ride I've ever had on that stretch of road as its been partially repaved.
Southbound drive today. Still just foundations installed from Bernardston to Northampton. NB traffic is now using the new Deerfield River bridge. The original NB bridge is in the process of being removed. Approach roadways are already removed. A couple photos I took:
1/2 mile advance for Exit 26. In front of the bridge on the right, you can see the base that will support the new overhead sign.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-J94zxUQfY4k/Vnnw58i0VgI/AAAAAAAAWk0/V1u-QKUZTGs/s640-Ic42/IMG_0022.JPG)
One of the newer signs for the Greenfield Amtrak station. I'm not sure why the two "EXITS" (one blank one at top, one below Amtrak). Northampton's signs are the same format/dual "exits". No signs posted for the Holyoke Amtrak station yet, though that one opened this past August.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c8t82alFV2Y/Vnnw519kSLI/AAAAAAAAWk4/E_n-7CvmQ8o/s640-Ic42/IMG_0023.JPG)
At Exit 8 in Springfield, the start of the viaduct project. Exits 7 & 6 are closed and there is a temporary exit, signed as "EXITS 7 & 6" about 1/4 mile before this picture. Also at this point, the left lane of I-91 SB is closed, forcing traffic to a single lane. A 2nd lane comes back at the merge from Exit 8/I-291, with the far left lane closed.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xmQBE99RZ7E/Vnnw6K1u2HI/AAAAAAAAWk8/tLK1153kY5U/s640-Ic42/IMG_0024.JPG)
... and we finally have an update...
Drove south on 91 this morning through the project area (Bernardston-W. Springfield). Wasn't sure what to expect, but once I saw the new parking area sign (which has PARKING and AREA stacked), I figured I better keep the camera handy. I missed the shot of the new Massachusetts welcome sign. In the southbound direction, from Bernardston down to Northampton, only new signs up are some of the former ground-based which are now overhead. They are all mounted on heavy duty single poles. No trusses or cantilevers. And I didn't see any full-width gantries up yet southbound. Also what is interesting is no regulatory or secondary signage has been replaced as of yet. On previous projects, these are usually the first things to get replaced. There have been some destination and route marker modifications. For instance, Exit 20-SB which was signed "US 5/MA 9/MA 10" is now signed "SOUTH US 5/MA 10 TO MA 9", a much more accurate description. MA 116 now appears on primary BGSs NB for Exit 24, as does Conway. Some former full-width gantries are now single-laned gantries in Holyoke, with the second BGS relocated. The new Exit 14 signage has the Mass Pike logo and the "TOLL ROAD" yellow highlight.
What I did find interesting is new signs installed saying "NEXT EXIT ##" in areas where an exit doesn't appear in a particular direction but does in the other (such as in Hatfield and Northampton). It seems pointless installing these considering I-91 will be going mile-based soon. (maybe).
And, unfortunately, all new signs retain the old sequential numbering.
Pics are up in the photostream of my FLICKR account, but I'll embed some in a post here as soon as I get them sorted into albums and such. And I'll be posting more pics later in the week after I travel the NB stretch on Friday.
Photos are up. Here's the direct link to the album:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/albums/72157657084998544/with/26616379836/
Just click the images to see full size versions. What is interesting is the signs look like they're transparent, as you can see the gantries behind the signs. But they're not. Guess that's just how my iphone took the shots.
The existing welcome sign at the state line southbound was exactly the same. However, on second inspection, I see that there is a new welcome sign which is almost identical:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FkJyQV43.jpg&hash=08b87f66586cad8696bdb4747ec23bad188f0d04)
I can say for certain that the sign right at Exit 28 southbound is definitely new and on one giant support pole. It's only signed as "MA 10 - Bernardston".
Is the sign in the background the new one? Yuck! Liked the older version with larger "Welcomes You" a lot better.
Quote from: KEVIN_224 on May 29, 2016, 10:35:26 AM
I can say for certain that the sign right at Exit 28 southbound is definitely new and on one giant support pole. It's only signed as "MA 10 - Bernardston".
Hmmmm.... cause last month, it had Bernardston and Northfield on the SB signage:
(https://c7.staticflickr.com/2/1693/26616383686_a30dcc09d7_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/GxZVz1)91SB-Exit28 (https://flic.kr/p/GxZVz1) by Jay Hogan (https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/), on Flickr
Northbound, Benardston and Northfield are split up since its a split interchange (A&B for MA 10 N and S)
there are still a lot of older style small tab signs on I-91 in Massachusetts north of Exit 14. I drove the entire length of I-91 this weekend in Massachusetts.
Plenty of ground mounted signs left, but you'll have exits where the 1 mile sign is old, the ½ mile sign is new, and the exit now (the one with the arrow) is old.
Also worth noting I-91 in CT north of Hartford still has plenty of button copy left.
Quote from: mariethefoxy on May 29, 2016, 05:32:13 PM
Also worth noting I-91 in CT north of Hartford still has plenty of button copy left.
Some of those signs were installed in the late 1980s. Since that time, I-91 signage in Mass has been replaced twice... once in the early 1990s and again now or in the past 2 years. I don't see any contracts on the horizon to replace I-91 CT signage in the next few years, so button copy will remain north of Hartford for the foreseeable future, except on random replacements.
Quote from: shadyjay on May 30, 2016, 07:32:07 PM
Quote from: mariethefoxy on May 29, 2016, 05:32:13 PM
Also worth noting I-91 in CT north of Hartford still has plenty of button copy left.
Some of those signs were installed in the late 1980s. Since that time, I-91 signage in Mass has been replaced twice... once in the early 1990s and again now or in the past 2 years. I don't see any contracts on the horizon to replace I-91 CT signage in the next few years, so button copy will remain north of Hartford for the foreseeable future, except on random replacements.
It will all eventually be replaced as part of the statewide mileage-based exit renumbering project. One gantry at the CT 20 interchange has already been replaced.
Key word here is "eventually". The replaced gantry was part of CT's statewide overhead sign support replacement project. The signage was originally installed in the early 1990s when I-91 was widened through there. North of Exit 44, it was widened already during my first trip to VT in 1989, so I'd date the button copy in that area, up to the Mass state line, to the 1987-1988 time frame.
I have a feeling the feds will require CT to convert in less than 20 years and that we'll see overlays on the existing button copy signage on some routes.
Quote from: shadyjay on June 01, 2016, 05:53:01 PM
I have a feeling the feds will require CT to convert in less than 20 years and that we'll see overlays on the existing button copy signage on some routes.
And I'm sure that when and if those overlays go in, ConnDOT will be pressured to completely change the signs out. When Massachusetts changed the exit numbers on I-95 and I-93, the severe contrast at night of having new overlays on older signs caught a lot of attention from people. And those signs were newer than the current signs on I-91 in CT.
Quick trip through the project limits yesterday and today. Still quite a few signs to go up... few changes from last time. Dual-sided overheads still not replaced yet, though it appears there will be many less than before, as SB the Holyoke exits are having signage split up to single-sided gantries only. A couple new overheads for Exit 19 in Northampton, which change the control cities from "9/Northampton/Amherst" to "9/Hadley/Amherst". Also some new regulatory signs NB and new reassurance shields. The shields are similar to those on the Longmeadow-West Springfield project, dual-posted, with the directional mounted on the right post. The numerals "91" are smaller than the previous signs. A few cases of "dualling signage" still in existance, including the SB Welcome sign and the NB 1/2 mile advance for Exit 26. There's still a lot of work to go, but progress is being made for sure.
Also looks like work is finally wrapping up on the Deerfield River bridge, northbound. Fresh pavement awaits lane markings. A new reassurance shield is alongside the new NB bridge, while the old mile markers remain on what used to be the old NB roadway.
No pics this time. That'll wait for a trip next month.
Not much has changed in the past month. A few more new regulatory signs, all new reassurance shields, and a few more overhead BGSs. Still no full-span gantries yet. Looks like all the duplicate signage (old battling the new) has been removed. New BGS at exit for Exit 25 and Exit 18. Rearview showed the new Exit 27-NB signage as simple BGSs, vs the giant diagrammatics. This was in place for the 2, 1, and 1/2 mile. Couldn't see the "exit now" BGS. A quick recollection of what I see for old signage, SB:
Exit 28 - 1 mile
Exit 27 - 2, 1, 1/2 mile, exit now
Exit 26 - at exit
Exit 23 - 3/4 mile?
Exit 14 - 3/4 mile - full width gantry that used to have signage for Exit 13, since relocated to new single-side gantry
Also saw the new mileposts (showing every tenth/mile) over the Deerfield River Bridge. They're only NB on the new span and are idenitcal to those in VT (vertically oriented, vs horizontal).
Got a few pics of some signage which I'll get online at the link below in the next few days.
Update 8/17/2016...
Most new signs are up throughout the entire project. Remaining signs to go up:
NB: Exit 21 (vertical post up, no horizontal or sign), Exit 28A - full width
SB: Exit 27 - all signs
Since my last trip last month, full width gantries are now in place and are all monotube supports. The giant billboard-sized diagrammatics for Exit 27-NB are gone. There's still some old signs to be removed, and at Exit 16, the new and old gantries are both still up.
Hit here for my photo album:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/albums/72157657084998544
IMHO, the numerals for the I-291 & 391 shields should be Series D not C.
Dawned on me that the destinations on the new exit 19 signs are just Hadley and Amherst when I drove through there again recently. I know the exit's technically already in Northampton, but the fact of the matter is that MA 9 is the main road into Northampton Center from the east and I half-wonder if it carries more traffic than US 5/MA 10 from Exit 18. Would have much preferred seeing Amherst and Northampton Center as the destinations -- one in each direction.
Update as of 11/28:
There appears to be zero progress on the project since my trip last month. Two full-width gantries for Exit 27-SB remain to be put up, with the Exit 27 1/2 mile still having the vertical mounting posts for the overhead installed and nothing else. Same goes for Exit 21-NB. Still a couple old bridge-mounted signs still up in Hatfield. Did notice a few secondary BGSs (that weren't part of the project) in pieces on the side of the SB lanes in some locations around Greenfield.
They finally have removed work zone speed limits for the Deerfield River bridge project. And the new travel time signs are now all live, at least in the SB direction.
The Springfield viaduct seems to be progressing along. New center median lighting has been installed and it looks like soon traffic will shift to the inner portion so that the outer lanes can be rebuilt.
Quote from: shadyjay on November 28, 2016, 07:06:45 PM
Update as of 11/28:
The Springfield viaduct seems to be progressing along. New center median lighting has been installed and it looks like soon traffic will shift to the inner portion so that the outer lanes can be rebuilt.
The shift was to take place on Sunday night (11/28):
http://blog.mass.gov/transportation/massdot-highway/springfield-i-91-viaduct-project-traffic-shift/ (http://blog.mass.gov/transportation/massdot-highway/springfield-i-91-viaduct-project-traffic-shift/)
The shift took place in the northbound lanes. Came through there this afternoon... really nice ride on the rebuilt viaduct. The right lane is the lane that now ends just past Exit 6. A couple new left-side cantilevers are in place at the I-291 exit. No mention of the exit to US 20 West being closed... except "DETOUR 20" shields outside of the work zone, directing traffic to use Exit 10. The new center median lighting on the viaduct is in place as well. Looks nice, but the lights are lower compared to other illumination in the area. Southbound traffic was still on the outer edges of the viaduct when I came through, but the inner SB lanes are paved and it should transition over at some point soon.
As evident in the SB direction on Monday, no changes in any signage on the West Springfield-Bernardston signing contract in the NB direction. Still no "exit now" sign for Exit 21. The vertical gantry is up, just awaiting the horizontal "arm" and the sign itself. That's the only one needing installation. There's also the now-unnecessary "Hadley-Exit 19" sign still in place.
5 months later, and a few things to report:
The 2 mile advance for Exit 27 Southbound remains the old sign. However, I did notice the new gantry/supports laying next to the highway, so perhaps they'll finally get around to putting it up this summer. Nothing different for the Exit 21 sign... still just the veritcal post, no horizontal post up yet. I did observe some newish regulatory-type signs in place, including new "No U Turn" signs for the median crossovers. Still some old signs in place in the Exit 19-20 work zone in Northampton, including a couple old I-91 shields and the aforementioned "Hadley-Exit 19" sign. The "Northampton Next 2 Exits" sign is the last one left on an overpass in Hatfield/Whately. I did observe new supports installed to possibly support a ground version of this sign... hopefully it'll be changed to "Next 3 Exits", as Next 2 Exits only identifies Exits 21 & 20 (Exit 19 is the south end of Northampton).
Outside of that, looks like this project replaced all signs except mile markers, blue logo signs (Food, Lodging, Attractions, etc), and destination/mileage signs.
Quote from: shadyjay on May 15, 2017, 04:56:46 PM
Outside of that, looks like this project replaced all signs except mile markers, blue logo signs (Food, Lodging, Attractions, etc), and destination/mileage signs.
That is precisely MassDOT SOP for a large sign replacement project. This is because the mile markers and post-interchange distance signs are deemed to still be in serviceable condition, and the blue logo signs are normally installed by private businesses, not the state. And yes, there are exceptions to this practice - such as the new Attractions sign installed on I-91, but they are rare.
Actually one big blue ATTRACTIONS sign did get installed, for Exit 17A/17B, northbound, in Holyoke. But it remains void of any attractions.
As a side note, Connecticut has started to install blue ATTRACTIONS signs, and even includes colleges/universities as attractions. To date, I-395 has them, as soon will CT 8's northern reaches. There's also a couple on I-91, but they're temporary (in CT-ese, that could mean 10-15 years later), and only hold two "logos".
The mile markers and distance signs were installed in separate projects many years after the guide signs being replaced were installed. ie - in the 2000s, so they have plenty of life left.
I wonder if there will be the "lone strangler" in this project... meaning, the sign that doesn't get replaced for some odd reason. Like the "ENTERING HATFIELD" sign in the median on I-91NB at Exit 21. Or in CT, the last blue all-text services sign for Exit 75 at the south end of I-395, the Jct 91 1 1/2 miles sign on CT 9 NB, etc. Seems like there's always THAT ONE sign that slips through the cracks and outlasts them all! For this project, I'm putting my money on "HADLEY-EXIT 19", NB. Because in 10 years when they're done playing with them damn bridges in Holyoke, they'll forget all about it!
Quote from: shadyjay on May 16, 2017, 05:26:35 PM
Actually one big blue ATTRACTIONS sign did get installed, for Exit 17A/17B, northbound, in Holyoke. But it remains void of any attractions.
Found the reason.
;-)
Actually Exit 16 has at least 5 listed. I don't know what they'd put for Exit 17A-B, outside of Mt Tom State Reservation for 17A.
I'm pretty sure Exit 18 had one big blue sign northbound on I-91.
Quote from: Rothman on May 16, 2017, 05:41:16 PM
I'm pretty sure Exit 18 had one big blue sign northbound on I-91.
Oh it does!
https://www.google.com/maps/@42.2875225,-72.6219925,3a,34.7y,322.36h,90.43t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sdPMV_jaek5Q_GQ_s5d-hLw!2e0!7i13312!8i6656
Come to think of it, I didn't notice it this past weekend.
Quote from: shadyjay on May 16, 2017, 05:26:35 PM
I wonder if there will be the "lone strangler" in this project...
Straggler. :)
Quote from: shadyjay on May 16, 2017, 05:26:35 PM
Actually one big blue ATTRACTIONS sign did get installed, for Exit 17A/17B, northbound, in Holyoke. But it remains void of any attractions.
Yes, there are cases where blue logo signs are installed as part of sign replacement projects - have amended my earlier post to reflect this. In this instance, the Attractions sign in Holyoke was indeed installed under the sign replacement project, as opposed to a private installation. The reason for this was to provide adequate spacing with the adjacent hybrid travel time sign, and to reduce overall sign clutter by combining many of the independent supplemental signs at this location onto a single Attractions panel. MassDOT has also started replacing blue logo background panels where the existing sign is sufficiently worn, or where an older sign would need to be reset to accommodate current spacing requirements for the replacement guide signs. These latter points will be a factor in the design for the upcoming Attleboro to Norwood I-95 sign replacement, as a) many of the blue logo background panels date from the early days (1980s) of the state's LOGO program and b) most of the current support structures were located based on kilometers (in anticipation of the then-expected conversion to metric units) instead of miles or fractions of mile.
Some (if not all) of the remaining signs are up on the 91 viaduct in Springfield now. Construction isn't complete; however some major milestones have been completed including reopening some ramps and taking down the barriers and such.
Some of the news reports below have videos of the roadway including in one a new diagrammatic sign northbound prior to the 291 interchange for 291 and route 20/North End Bridge exits.
http://wwlp.com/tag/i-91-construction/
The NB diagrammatic on a very wet Sunday at the end of October 2017:
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4506/37994056142_495e887c46_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZTptcu)91NB-Exit08-1 (https://flic.kr/p/ZTptcu) by Jay Hogan (https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/), on Flickr
And Southbound, taken yesterday, of the reopened Exit 7:
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4537/37867147634_a09bd29e30_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZGc2HL)91SB-Exit07 (https://flic.kr/p/ZGc2HL) by Jay Hogan (https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/), on Flickr
I'll try and get better northbound shots on Friday.
The complete northbound viaduct photo album is available now. Start here, then scroll right:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/37736488105/in/album-72157657084998544/
Passed by I-91 in Springfield on Amtrak this past weekend and noticed some changed signage. Southbound Exit 3 to US 5 North (South End Bridge) is now signed as "EXIT ONLY". The third (extreme right) lane had previously ended a few hundred feet past this exit. It makes sense signing it as an EXIT ONLY since a lot of traffic exits here and better than having the lane end just past the exit.
So this sign has been replaced with one that has the arrow in the middle of the Exit Only tab:
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/834/41655677791_102341611e_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/26sYeKe)DSC09605 (https://flic.kr/p/26sYeKe) by Jay Hogan (https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/), on Flickr
(note at the time of the above photo, there was construction on several bridges in the area, reducing I-91 to 2 lanes.... that work has since wrapped up)
Quote from: shadyjay on November 25, 2017, 12:08:46 AM
The complete northbound viaduct photo album is available now. Start here, then scroll right:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/37736488105/in/album-72157657084998544/
Are you a railfan, perchance, Jay?
Quote from: jon daly on July 23, 2018, 10:22:36 PM
Quote from: shadyjay on November 25, 2017, 12:08:46 AM
The complete northbound viaduct photo album is available now. Start here, then scroll right:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/shadyjay/37736488105/in/album-72157657084998544/
Are you a railfan, perchance, Jay?
Why yes.... yes I am. I worked on the railroad for 10 years in CT, I ride trains when I can, and I take pictures. I'm not one of those people who frantically chases trains, however. I like to ride them and get the mileage when I can and support the groups who put them on.
Cool. As you might've guessed, I explored your Flickr page for a little bit last night.
I'm not enormously into it, but I try and keep an eye out for trains while I'm driving up I-95 from Mystic to Providence. My least favorite is the Acela unless it's really moving. To me, it looks like a humdrum airplane with it's wings clipped. I once drove down to Quonset Point and happened to see some interesting rolling stock, but what I mainly see are ethanol tankers near the Motiva terminal in South Providence.