摘要: |
This report presents the results of a study undertaken to develop improved design guidance for high-speed to low-speed transition zones on rural highways. The primary steps of the research included a literature review and state-of-practice review on speed reduction treatments utilized in transition zones (both domestically and internationally) and observational field studies of several key treatments that have been implemented in the United States. Several important or fundamental findings from the observation field studies are as follows: Roundabouts and transverse pavement markings (TPMs) increase the rate of compliance of vehicles traveling at or below the speed limit at the end of a transition zone by 15 and 20 percent, respectively, compared to no treatment. Roundabouts increase the rate of compliance of vehicles traveling within 5 mph of the speed limit at the end of a transition zone by 11 percent, compared to no treatment. The findings support previous research (Forbes, 2011) indicating the need to provide additional measures through the community to maintain any speed reduction downstream of the transition zone. This report also provides design guidance for selecting geometric design, traffic control device, pavement surface, and roadside treatments for transitioning from high- to low-speed roadways on rural highways. |