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Lane Configurations for Reconstructions

Started by Bitmapped, September 24, 2024, 07:15:32 PM

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Bitmapped

When reconstructing pairs of 2-lane roadways or bridges, like on a freeway, you often see one of these two lane configurations:
  • Each direction stays on their original side, with one lane of the roadway or bridge reconstructed at a time.
  • Two-way traffic, with one lane in each direction, is maintained on one roadway or bridge with the other completely closed for reconstruction.

For short duration projects, Option #1 is almost always used since it doesn't require the construction of median crossovers.

For longer projects, such as full depth reconstruction of roadways or complete deck or bridge replacements, I still see Option #1 used a lot in some states such as West Virginia where I live. This is puzzling to me as it seems like the cost of the median crossovers would be offset by the simplified logistics and improved safety from not having to maintain traffic right next to where you are working, especially when you're not worried about cutting off access to nearby exits.

Does there tend to be a preference for one option or the other among DOTs? Is there some benefit to Option #1 that I'm not seeing?



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