The DOT frequently issues special alerts and traffic advisories. Lane closures may last for longer than usual, allowing for set-up and breakdown. Traffic advisories can be especially helpful when you are traveling during construction. Below are the dates and locations for the next upcoming traffic advisory and street closures:
Traffic advisory for roadway improvement work for the week of May 16, 2022
There are numerous construction projects occurring in and around the region this week. Several bridge replacement projects are underway in the Chester area, and a roadway project is taking place in Springfield. Several intersections will be closed and one lane will be restricted in each direction on VT 11 during the week. Drivers should expect minor delays and one-way alternating traffic in several locations. In addition, VT 15 will have lane closures westbound between Susie Wilson Road and Ethan Allen Ave., as well as at the intersection with Barnes Ave.
Additionally, the City of Troy has issued a traffic advisory for the week of May 16, 2022, because of the ongoing roadway improvement work. The closures will result in one lane of traffic and limited sidewalk access. Residents should expect occasional lane closures and work outside the roadway as the work continues. During the week of May 16, 2022, the contractor will be working on improving the safety of US 69 and installing pedestrian signals, curb ramps, and crosswalks. On FM 449, Longview Maintenance will be conducting pavement widening, and flaggers will be in place to control traffic.
In addition to these work zones, Route 737 will be closed on Friday, May 16, 2022. Flagging operations will take place on that road for vegetation control. Route 50 will also be closed for tree removal. Route 340 will also have intermittent road closures during this week. All of these projects will be impacted by a traffic advisory. In addition, the lane closures will be posted on the corresponding road signs.
Several counties in Virginia are impacted by the roadway improvement work this week. The Staunton Transportation District consists of 11 counties: Alleghany Highlands, Rockbridge, Highland, Augusta, Frederick, Page, Warren, and Shenandoah. Further, the work zone near U.S. 301 will be closed from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
The work zone on WIS 32/57 will impact the intersection of Bay Settlement Road. The construction project involves replacement of the culvert and curb ramp, beam guard upgrades, box culvert extension, and realignment of the Man Cal Road intersection. In addition, pavement markings and centerline rumble strips will be installed. The closures are expected to be completed in fall 2022.
The contractor will close one lane of traffic in each direction during this project. There will also be intermittent lane closures. Motorists are encouraged to exercise caution while traveling through the work zone. Drivers should be aware of construction personnel, signs, and equipment. During this time, drivers are advised to avoid the affected areas. Before entering the work zone, be sure to read all signs and follow the directions posted on the project.
During this project, single lanes in the Bronx and Manhattan will be closed for lane closures. On Sunday, May 15, the construction will occur in the morning and late afternoon, with lane closures expected from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The closures will be necessary due to electrical work in the roadway.
Lane closings may be longer than normal to allow for set-up and breakdown
The time period for stationary closures of traffic lanes is ten hours from when the first cone is placed until the last one is removed, while lane closings on shoulders are two hours from when the last cone is removed and the advance warning signs are removed. Moving closures, meanwhile, may last longer because of set-up or breakdown, and they will occur more frequently than normal.
While the actual lane closing time depends on the circumstances of a given work zone, some factors are more important than others. The first component of a mobile lane closure should be clearly visible to drivers. Other components of the system should be placed in the direction of traffic flow so that drivers are unable to avoid them. Workers should only enter the closed lane once all devices are in place.
The contractor should use the Caltrans Lane Closure System (LCS) for requesting and statusing closures. In the event that the equipment breaks down or does not work, the contractor must use the assigned user identification to access LCS and submit closure requests. The closure requests are stored in the LCS with a “SAVED” status. These closure requests may be overlapping.
Some workers may operate vehicles in a closed lane with the permission of the resident engineer. For example, some striping operations require the operator to operate against traffic. Workers operating against traffic must have hazard lights and flashing amber lights on their vehicle. Workers should never make a U-turn in traffic. They must also follow all other safety guidelines while working on the road.
Private construction projects affect traffic
Traffic advisory and street closures can be important for the safety of construction workers and the public. During road work, private construction projects may impact traffic flow. A private developer may be replacing an existing wastewater line to build a new business. This construction requires a temporary closure of the street, pavement repairs, and detours for local traffic. Throughout the construction, local traffic will be able to access the neighborhood and places of worship. This closure is expected to last for several weeks.
