Abstract

From July 2023 to July 2025, the team performed several dozen after-action reviews of interstate work zones and the associated maintenance of traffic (MOT). These after-action reports generally contain the following information: Date, location, visual images, connected vehicle summary graphics, qualitative discussion of activity, and in some cases press releases or media posts. In general, these themes emerged:

  1. MOT plans in some cases do not accurately capture the geometry constraints placed by bridges, guardrail and or barrier wall. It is important that design reviews place careful focus on ensuring lane widths, shoulders, and shoulder treatments fit across the entire cross section of each phase or requests for design exceptions be initiated. In some cases, performing some type of LiDAR survey prior to design may assist MOT designers in effectively capturing more accurate location and dimensions of existing geometrics, particularly edge of pavement, edge of bridge, guardrails, and embankments.
  2. When lane shifts are initiated, the designers should examine the path of the vehicle at both the start and end of the transition. In some cases, the end of the transition occurs quite close to either a guardrail or narrow section of pavement. In some cases, either gentler transitions or additional horizontal clearance should be considered.
  3. There is relatively little dialog between the temporary traffic control contractors and designers on what are the best practices and requirements for implementing a change in MOT.
  4. To sustain this engagement between designers, and MOT contractors, it is recommended that selected projects include MOT review with design engineers, and contractor as part of the close out process to document lessons learned.
  5. Rolling slows downs have a role in MOT, but there appears to be inconsistent use of rolling slowdowns for short term closures. It is recommended that requirements for rolling slowdowns be identified in the MOT plans. If contractors are required to use rolling slowdowns not documented in MOT plans, they should be required to obtain approval from the Indiana Department of Transportation and notify the Traffic Management Center.
  6. Barrier walls are an important tool for MOT. However, their set up can have significant impact on traffic capacity and create queues. Project plans should define days/time periods these are permitted to be installed and/or removed.

Keywords

traffic, work zones, connected vehicle, MOT, dash cameras, inspection

Report Number

FHWA/IN/JTRP-2025/29

SPR Number

4854

Performing Organization

Joint Transportation Research Program

Publisher Place

West Lafayette, Indiana

Date of Version

2025

DOI

10.5703/1288284318578

Additional Files
SPR-4854 Technical Summary.pdf (1808 kB)
SPR-4854 Technical Summary
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