WORCESTER INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS
MassDOT
Working for MassDOT, HSH performed a study to address congestion and safety issues at 16 locations along the Lincoln Street/Highland Street/Pleasant Street corridor, a principal arterial roadway in Worcester that extends from I-290 through downtown to Worcester Regional Airport and beyond. HSH civil engineers then provided 25% design plans for the corridor including 16 intersections. The preliminary design involved extensive coordination among public agencies and other stakeholders, including the City of Worcester. HSH’s work includes preparation of detailed plans, special provisions, and estimate in accordance with the MassDOT Project Development and Design Guidebook for 13 signalized intersections, 2 unsignalized intersections, and 1 modern roundabout. As part of the initial study and analysis of existing and projected future conditions, HSH performed extensive data collection and conducted warrant analyses for 2 of the intersections. Based on this assessment, HSH designed needed improvements for designated locations. New handicapped accessible ramps, sidewalks, and pedestrian improvements were proposed throughout the corridor.
At some locations, spot improvements involved minor roadway widening, signal equipment upgrades and detection, lane use modifications, and signal phasing/timing changes. At locations that appear on the Commonwealth’s Top 200 High-crash Intersections list, recommended safety improvements also included protected turning lanes and upgraded signal phasing. Right-of-way plans and layout descriptions are included in the detailed layout drawings for each location. HSH also designed the configuration of new signal equipment and interconnection and coordination of traffic signals, as well as performing a cost-benefit analysis to determine whether loop or video detection is preferable at a given intersection. After review by MassDOT, the intersection improvements were prioritized and MassDOT elected to bring 7 intersections to 75% design. The intersections are located in Worcester’s downtown area and were prioritized because they presented the most significant delay and a need to improve safety at the chosen intersections. HSH is currently working on the 75% design plans and will be presenting the PS&E to MassDOT in October of 2011. Construction is scheduled for Spring 2012.
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